In an instant, an on-the-job accident may occur and leave you suffering from serious injuries. Your employer’s workers’ compensation policy may provide you with valuable coverage, including paying for your medical bills and providing partial wage replacement payments.
Taking the appropriate steps after suffering a workplace injury may help ensure you receive the benefits you need and deserve.
Report your injury
According to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, you should report workplace injuries to your supervisor as soon as possible. Your employer will complete and file the first report of injury form with the department. Within 10 days of learning of a lost-time claim, your employer must report your injury to its insurance company. If the insurer accepts your claim, you will begin receiving benefits within 14 days of the date when you first reported your injury.
Obtain medical care
Immediately, you should seek medical attention for occupational injuries. If you require emergency medical care for your on-the-job injury, you may receive it wherever you choose. In other cases, your employer may send you to receive treatment from a network of doctors or facilities covered by their managed care plan.
Keep organized records
The DLI recommends that you keep records of your accident, injury and workers’ compensation claim. For example, this may include documents and information such as the following:
- Forms, letters and other correspondence with your employer and their insurance carrier
- The name of and phone number for your claim adjuster
- Your date of injury or diagnosis
- Medical bills and estimation of benefit summaries
- Notes of phone conversations
Having such information organized and accessible may come in handy in the event of problems with your claim or benefits.
Suffering an injury on the job may turn your world upside down; however, through the state workers’ compensation program, you may receive much-needed benefits that allow you to focus on your recovery.