Workplace accidents happen regularly. Unfortunately, serious work accidents can result in multiple injuries. When you have been hurt on the job, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If you have been in a work-related accident that injured more than one body part, you are entitled to receive workers’ compensation for the entire disability that has resulted. This is also the case if your original injury leads to an additional injury. As an example, you might have suffered a fall at work that injured your left shoulder. Because of that injury, you depended more on your right shoulder. In turn, you suffered an injury to your right shoulder that was of a permanent nature. You can file a claim for the compensable injury caused by the initial injury. Documentation Supporting Your Claim If you have suffered injuries in an accident at work, documentation is the key to a successful claim. You should get medical care as soon as possible. Choose a physician from the approved list available from your employer. You will need to notify a manager or supervisor as soon as you can, so they will be aware that an accident took place. An accident report must be completed. Do not give your statement or complete paperwork until you are up to par, because it must be accurate. If you are under the influence of medications or in pain, just tell your employer you will need to wait to fill out paperwork. All your statements must be accurate and consistent. Make sure any witnesses give written statements as well. The Importance of Medical Care Make sure you attend follow-up appointments. Following doctor’s orders and maintaining the proper care play an important role in your workers’ comp claim. You want your claim to be successful, so be sure to document any problems you are having and notify your doctor of any issues. If you have questions about your ability to work, even light duty, don’t hesitate to ask your physician. Your doctor will need to put everything in writing, such as your inability to work or your ability to do light duty. Keep copies of any documents for your own records. You will need to make sure you document missed work and lost wages as well, so you can make sure you are paid accurately. Consult With A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Workers’ compensation claims can be complicated. If you have a claim involving multiple injuries, you need to consult with a workers’ comp attorney as soon as possible. A statute of limitations applies, so time is of the essence. Your lawyer will assess your situation and go over all your injuries, making sure you are fairly compensated for all the disabilities you suffered. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page, so a lawyer can review your case. Workers’ comp lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose. Get your claim underway with the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer today! Additional Resources What Types of Injuries Does a Workers’ Compensation Claim Cover? What Does Workers' Compensation Cover?
