Injured at Work? Here is What You Should Do

On-the-job accidents can result in serious personal injuries that require ongoing and expensive medical care while leaving you unable to work. Workers’ compensation benefits help cover your costs, but obtaining these benefits can be a challenge. Your actions in the aftermath of an injury play a major role in getting your claim approved. Our Hampton workers’ compensation lawyer explains what you should do. 

Take These Steps to Protect Your Rights to Worker’s Compensation Benefits

Benefits available through the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) can help cover the costs associated with on-the-job injuries and compensate you for any ongoing disabilities you suffer. When a work-related accident happens, there are steps you need to take to protect your rights to these benefits. These include: 

• Notify your employer immediately: Inform your supervisor, manager, or others involved so that an accident report can be filed. 
• Get medical attention immediately: Your employer should provide a list of three doctors that you can choose from in getting care. The cost of this initial visit is covered. Make sure to tell the doctor your injuries happened while on the job. 
• Adhere to activity restrictions: Do not return to work until cleared to do so by your doctor. Follow their advice in terms of other activities to avoid. 
• File a claim with the WCC: In some cases, an employer may file a workers’ compensation claim on your behalf, though they are not required to do so. 
• Respond right away to communications from your employer or WCC: Comply with any requests for additional information and keep copies of all correspondence. 

Common Questions About What to Do After On-the-Job Injuries in Virginia

The following are common questions we hear from clients regarding workers’ compensation claims and their rights to benefits: 

• What if I failed to report my injuries immediately? While it is better not to wait, you have up to 30 days after an injury to report it. 
• Can I see my own doctor? Under the Virginia Code, your employer is required to provide a panel of three physicians for you to choose from. If they fail to do so, you may see your own doctor. 
• Am I still entitled to benefits if I was partially at fault for my injuries? Even if you were partially at fault, you are still entitled to benefits. 
• Can I sue my employer? Workers’ compensation benefits prevent lawsuits against employers. However, you may be entitled to sue others involved if they played a role in causing your injuries. 

Discuss Your Claim With Our Hampton Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workers’ compensation benefits in Virginia provide a lifeline for injured workers and pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. To protect your rights in a claim and to get the maximum amount of benefits you are entitled to, reach out to Hampton Injury Law, PLC. To discuss your claim, call or contact our Hampton workers’ compensation lawyer online and request a case evaluation.