Accidents can happen anywhere – while riding a bike down the street, taking your dog for a walk in the park or playing basketball with a group of friends. Accidents can happen in the workplace too, where an unexpected incident can cause a sudden injury or illness. These kinds of accidents can range from severe falls or equipment failures to repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel.
Whether your workplace injury causes temporary or permanent damage, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation provides the injured employee with benefits such as medical costs, wage losses and any rehabilitation needs.
What should I do if I’m injured on the job?
- Tell your employer as soon as possible. If you believe you have suffered an injury due to a work-related incident, Minnesota law encourages you to inform your boss within 14 days of the injury. If you wait to notify your employer of an injury, you may lose your chance to file for workers’ compensation and receive any benefits.
- Visit a trusted physician. Set up an appointment with your preferred doctor to understand the severity of your injury. Your doctor will help you determine how long you may be absent from work. You should also be aware that your employer may ask you to consult their own designated physician under certain circumstances.
- Consult with an attorney. The process of filing a workers’ compensation claim can be difficult and time-consuming. An attorney with experience in handling workers’ compensation cases can provide you with answers throughout the process and ensure you take the right steps to receive all your benefits.
It’s important to take every work-related injury seriously and seek the support you need to recover. This includes the financial benefits that could be available to you through workers’ compensation.