If you’ve been hurt on the job, you’re probably wondering what the next step is going to be. Your first order of business should be to notify your employer about the injuries you sustained on the job. What should you do if, however, your employer decides not to report the work injury? In a circumstance such as that, the following are four steps to take.
The Importance of Reporting Your Work Injury
In 2016, the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics recorded 4,405 workplace injuries and illnesses in the private sector. This number, however, reflects only a small portion of the overall number of work injuries and illnesses that occurred in the United States that year. Thousands of American workers are hurt on the job every. Sadly, many of these work injuries is not recorded. This is due to numerous reasons, including:
- Fear of retaliation from employers,
- Lack of knowledge about reporting procedures, and
- Confusion about workers’ rights.
Unreported injuries are a significant issue because they can result in more injuries, both to the workers who sustain them and to other workers exposed to the same hazards. In some situations, they also lead to workers’ compensation claims and a loss of production.
If you have a work injury, you must be aware that you have the right to report the incident and receive medical care. You should also be aware that the law requires your company to provide a safe working environment.
If you experience a work injury, you must notify your employer immediately. It will ensure that you obtain proper medical care and, if necessary, that you can file a workers’ compensation claim.
Notifying your employer of a work-related injury is also vital for protecting your legal rights. If you fail to report your workplace accident quickly, your employer may assert that you were hurt outside of work or that your injury is unrelated to your job. That could prevent you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits to which you are eligible.
What To Do If Your Employer Won’t Report Your Work Injury?
If you’ve been hurt on the job, you may question what to do if your employer refuses to report the incident. Regrettably, this is an all-too-common issue; many organizations attempt to minimize or conceal workplace injuries.
Nonetheless, it is essential to remember that as an employee, you have certain rights. If you have a work injury, you should notify your employer as quickly as possible. You can submit a claim with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration if your company refuses to report the damage.
Steps To Take If Your Employer Won’t Report Your Work Injury
- Talk to your supervisor or HR department.
- File a workers’ compensation claim with the help of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
- Seek medical attention to help you with health and workers’ comp claims in the long run.
- Notify your health insurance company.
Conclusion
If you have a work injury, you must promptly seek legal counsel. There are ways to obtain the compensation you deserve, even if your employer is unwilling to report your accident. The skilled lawyers at Gaylord and Nantais can assist you in navigating the workers’ compensation system and obtaining the benefits to which you are entitled. Call us at (562) 561-2669 for a complimentary consultation today.
