If an employee is injured on the job or develops an occupational disease, they need to report the case to their employer. However, some workers make mistakes when reporting, which ends up negatively impacting their whole process of claiming workers’ compensation benefits.
Here is what to know:
Report immediately
You need to report an injury immediately to your employer or supervisor. If you fail to do so within 30 days, you can affect your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. Reporting immediately allows you to link the injury to your work, for example, you can take your employer to the accident scene and can gather evidence, such as witness statements and video footage without difficulties.
If you develop an illness due to elements present in your work environment, report the case once you notice symptoms.
Do so in writing
While you are likely to report an injury or illness verbally, especially when you need to be rushed to the hospital, you should follow it up with a written report. In addition to your personal information, your notice should include every crucial detail related to the injury, including the date, time and location of the injury and the nature of the injury. You should also list all witnesses to your injury.
Make a copy of the written notice and keep it for yourself. Further, write down the date and time you mail the notice to your employer. If you hand deliver it, record the date and time of the delivery and the name and title of the person you give the notice to.
You need to be extra careful about the steps you take when reporting a work-related injury or illness. Get as much information as possible to get the compensation you are eligible for.