I Got Hurt on the Job: What Should I Do?

You and your coworkers have years of experience, follow all safety protocols, and never cut corners. Unfortunately, no matter how careful you and those around you are, over three million workers get hurt on the job every year, making workplace injuries a matter of when not if. 

What’s worse, only 40% of those who get hurt at work actually get their full workers’ compensation benefits. 

Navigating the complicated process of workers’ compensation can be daunting when you go it alone — and that’s where we come in.

Dr. Nikhil Pandhi is an experienced independent medical examiner trained to evaluate workplace injuries and help you get what you deserve. Here, our team gives you our ultimate guide to your first steps after you get hurt at work. 

Step 1: Document, document, document

Your workers' compensation case is nothing without proper documentation. Your lawyer and Dr. Pandhi both need the most up-to-date information possible to help you get the most benefits. 

Most laws require you to report your injury and fill out an injury report within 30 days of your injury. Every employer is different, but all are required to have appropriate documentation available and keep accurate records, so talk with your supervisor about what kinds of reports you need to fill out. 

This is a necessary and crucial part of building your workers' compensation case, so demand to get your injury documented in writing even if you’re told it isn’t necessary. We also recommend requesting copies for your personal records. 

Step 2: See us as soon as possible

Every injury (no matter how minor you think it might be) needs to be evaluated by an independent medical examiner like Dr. Pandhi. Doing so ensures you get both proper medical care and accurate records, especially if you’re having a dispute with your employer.

Because Dr. Pandhi and our team have years of experience evaluating workplace injuries, we know how to fill out injury reports and medical forms correctly. We also have the expertise and in-office resources to diagnose and treat your injury to get you back on your feet as quickly as possible. 

We walk you through your next steps in the workers’ compensation process to ensure you’re fully informed. 

Step 3: Plan for the future

We don’t just stop at getting you back to work. Our team works closely with you to help you transition smoothly from recovery to your first day back, including working with your employer to implement modifications and accommodations. 

We also walk you through a few ways to stay safe in the future. Even if you get your full benefits and make a complete recovery, another injury could be just around the corner. We recommend you follow these accident-prevention strategies to keep you from getting hurt on the job again:

• Know and avoid all workplace hazards
• Use safety gear
• Dress appropriately for your job 
• Inspect equipment and work site carefully
• Take breaks when you need them
• Lift and move with proper form

It’s also a good idea to keep an open line of communication with your employers and supervisors, letting them know about unsafe areas and practices to keep you and your coworkers safe and properly trained. 

If you’ve been hurt on the job, your clock is already ticking. Don’t hesitate to call or click to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pandhi and have your medical examination today.