Getting hurt at work can be a horrifying and devastating experience. If the injuries happened while you were advancing your employer’s interests, it is important to note that you may be eligible for compensation through your employer-sponsored workers’ compensation program.
Amidst the pain and confusion that comes with a workplace injury, however, it is important that you take the necessary steps to obtain the benefits you are entitled to. And besides reporting the accident to your employer per California workers’ compensation law, one of the most important steps you need to take following a work-related injury is seeking treatment.
Why is promptly seeing a doctor important? There are several compelling reasons why you need to seek treatment after your work-related injury or illness. Here are some of these reasons:
1. You need to protect your health
This is, perhaps, the most obvious reason to visit the doctor’s office as soon as possible following a workplace injury or illness. Not all injuries are created equal. While some injuries like cuts might be clearly apparent, it is not uncommon for hidden injuries like concussions to have delayed symptoms.
Seeking immediate medical attention will help you receive a proper diagnosis and prompt treatment for your injuries. Additionally, you will understand the scope of your injuries, and this is crucial for your workers’ compensation claim.
2. You need to safeguard your legal rights
Besides your health, seeking treatment immediately after an injury at work can help you protect your legal rights. Under California workers’ compensation law, your benefits are intended to pay for your medical expenses as well as a percentage of lost income due to missed work.
If you do not seek treatment immediately, you will have a difficult time linking your injuries to the workplace accident in question. Consequently, both your employer and the insurance company might dispute the origin of your injuries – and this can lead to your claim’s denial.
If you are hurt at work or while advancing your employer’s interests, you have rights. Learning more about California workers’ compensation law can help you safeguard your rights and interests while pursuing the benefits you are due.
