ACCIDENT AT WORK PROCEDURE - WHAT TO DO WHEN AN ACCIDENT OCCURS AT WORK
posted on 29 September 2011 | posted in
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Work-related accidents are very common, yet not every employee knows how to handle the situation when it occurs. Following an accident at work procedure is important for the employee to report the incident to the relevant authority. This is the first step one should undertake. If the casualty is in no state to make the report immediately, any witnesses nearby should do it. In cases where one suffers a serious injury, the most important thing is to get them to a healthcare facility where they can receive medical attention.
The doctor will then document your report, which you can then pass on to your employer. Or they can pass it on to the employer directly. If the accident happens away from the premises but still in the course of duty, call your supervisor immediately to report the incident. Once the incident has been reported, an investigation into the cause will be undertaken. Responsible employers will always do this, otherwise it may come back to haunt them if the employer files for a claim.
Third, an employee should then contact an accident at work attorney for help. This is an attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation. They will advice you on what the claim-making process involves, inform you of your rights and take over the procedure from there. They will make the claim on your behalf, of course after discussing the potential outcome with you.
Remember that accident at work attorneys only take up cases after they have looked at them closely and established validity. Sometimes, you may need to make a claim following complications you develop due to workplace hazard exposure. Such a claim may not require a report to be made, especially if you no longer work in the same place. However, if you are still with the same employer, you can fill the injury report form, under sickness.
If your employer does not contest your claim, you can get your settlement in a few months. If however the claim turns into a lawsuit, it could take longer for judgment to be passed. Your lawyer will inform you of what to expect in both cases.
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