What Should You Do If Your Employer Claims You Weren't Injured At Work?

Accidents can happen anywhere, even at work. If you get injured during a shift at your job, it's important to understand your rights. That way, you can take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your ability to earn a living.

If your employer tries to tell you that you weren't injured at work, or that your injuries aren't severe enough to warrant workers' compensation, it's time to speak with a workplace injury lawyer. Workers' compensation is a system in place to help employees like you who were injured on the job. Your workplace injury lawyer will help you navigate the workers' compensation system and ensure that you get the benefits you're entitled to.

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself if your employer claims you weren't injured at work:

1. Get medical attention right away

Seek medical attention as soon as the injury occurs, even if you initially feel okay. This will create a record of your injury, which will be important if you need to file a workers' compensation claim later.

Your employer may request that you seek care from a specific doctor, but you have the right to choose your own doctor as well. If your employer requires you to see a specific doctor, be sure to get a second opinion from another medical professional.

2. Notify your employer

Be sure to notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible, preferably in writing. This will create a paper trail and help you start the process of filing a workers' compensation claim.

If you're unsure who to notify at your workplace, start by speaking with your human resources manager. Your human resources manager will likely have paperwork you can complete after a workplace injury occurs. 

3. Gather evidence

If possible, try to gather evidence of your workplace injury. This can include things like pictures of the accident scene, witness statements, and your medical records. This evidence will be important if you need to file a workers' compensation claim or take legal action against your employer.

4. Keep a record of your injuries

Be sure to keep a record of your injuries, including when they occurred, how they happened, and any medical treatment you've received. This will be important evidence if you need to file a workers' compensation claim. You should also document any conversations that occur with your supervisors about your accident, such as emails where your boss says you're fine to resume your usual workload.

5. Speak with a workplace injury lawyer

If your employer insists that you weren't injured at work or claims that your injuries aren't eligible for workers' compensation, schedule a consultation with a workplace injury lawyer right away. They can help you negotiate with the claims adjuster, file a workers' compensation claim, and appeal a denial of benefits.

For more information, contact a professional like Edwin L Gagnon, Attorney at Law.

Share