If you have suffered an ankle injury while on the job, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If you don’t report this injury to the proper parties within the specified timeframe, you could lose access to these benefits. Every state sets its own workers’ compensation laws, but in general, there is a 30-day timeframe in which you must report your injury. If you fail to report your injury within that time, you could lose access to the benefits you need in such a challenging time. Workers’ compensation is a special, no-fault insurance that most employers must maintain to protect themselves and their employees in the event of a workplace accident or occupational disease. What to Do After an Accident If you have suffered an ankle injury at work, you will need to get medical care. There should be a list of approved physicians posted in a visible location at your workplace. Often, this is by a timeclock or in the breakroom. If you do not see this list, you will need to ask a manager or supervisor for a copy of the list. Failure to use a physician on the approved list can lead to a denial of medical benefits and you will end up having to pay for your own medical care. If your ankle injury is serious, such as a compound fracture, you will need to call an ambulance to be transported to the nearest hospital. Make sure a manager or supervisor is notified as soon as possible. An accident report must be completed, so give a detailed account of how you were injured. Make sure any witnesses give their accounts of your accident, which can help your claim. Maintain Follow Up Care You should follow doctor’s orders. Make sure you keep copies of physician notes. You will need to make sure any missed work has a physician’s orders, so you will be paid for your time. Workers’ compensation pays a portion of lost wages, so make sure your doctor puts everything in writing. You want to be compensated for your time off work. Sometimes workers’ comp claims are settled for a lump sum rather than continuing weekly checks. The settlement value is based on how long you will be off work for your injury multiplied by your weekly benefit check. Depending on your state laws, if you are unable to return to the same job workers’ comp might cover the cost of vocational retraining. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you have suffered an ankle injury at work, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. With the help of a workers’ compensation attorney, the odds of a successful claim increase significantly. Workers’ comp lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose. You need to get your claim on the right track today. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page, so a lawyer will review your case and tell you how to proceed. Additional Resources Tips for Filing Workers' Compensation for an Ankle Injury Can You File a Claim for Pain and Suffering With an Ankle Injury? What is an Ankle Injury Worth in a Workers’ Comp Claim?
