Knowing the right steps to take after an accident occurs at work is crucial for protecting your rights and accessing the help and compensation you may be entitled to. This article outlines the key actions you should take after being injured in a workplace accident. Following these essential steps will help ensure you get the medical care, legal support and financial assistance you need during this difficult time.
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Contact Emergency Services
If you are seriously injured in a workplace accident, the first priority is to get emergency medical treatment. Don’t delay – call 999 immediately and request an ambulance if needed. Administer first aid to yourself if you are able, but avoid moving unless absolutely necessary. Cooperate fully with emergency responders and go to the hospital even if you believe you are not seriously injured. Some injuries get worse over time, so it’s best to get examined right away. Follow the advice of medical professionals for any treatment necessary after the accident.
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Report the Incident
Reporting the accident quickly and accurately is vital. Inform your manager or supervisor immediately after contacting emergency services. Give clear details about how, when and where the accident occurred. Explain your injuries or any injuries sustained by others. Your employer has a legal duty to record and report workplace accidents. Make sure appropriate incident report forms are completed and filed with the proper authorities. Get copies of all paperwork for your records.
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Seek Medical Treatment
Follow up promptly with any medical treatment recommended by first responders. Keep records of doctor visits, tests, prescribed medication and recommended therapies. If your injury prevents you from working for a time, ask your doctor to fill out the proper sickness certificates. Get copies of your medical records and keep your employer informed about your recovery progress. Follow doctor’s orders carefully to help facilitate healing.
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Document Everything
Documentation is key when dealing with workplace injuries. Keep a notebook handy, or use your phone to record details while events are fresh in your mind. Take photos of hazardous conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Get contact info for witnesses who saw what happened. Save copies of all accident reports, medical records, bills and correspondence regarding the incident. Thorough documentation will help with your company’s investigation and any potential personal injury claim.
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Consult a Solicitor
Contact an experienced accident at work solicitor, like those at P.A Duffy & Co Solicitors, as soon as possible after the incident. They can advise you on the best course of action and protect your legal rights. Your solicitor can interact with insurers, help secure evidence, calculate lost income and determine if you are entitled to make an injury claim. Many offer free initial consultations and only get paid if they are successful in winning compensation for you. They have extensive experience navigating the claims process.
Suffering an accident at work can throw life into turmoil. While a workplace injury can seem overwhelming initially, there are steps you can take to exercise your rights, access help, and seek fair compensation. With patience and support, you can move forward after a workplace accident.
