What Should Workers Do If They Are Hurt on the Job in Massachusetts?
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What Should Workers Do If They Are Hurt on the Job in Massachusetts
The Essential Guide from an Experienced Work Accident Lawyer
Over the past three decades of working as a work accident attorney, I’ve witnessed countless hardworking individuals grappling with the aftermath of workplace injuries. It’s daunting, and the process can often feel overwhelming. But with the right guidance and understanding, you can navigate this challenging period with confidence.
Immediate Steps After a Workplace Injury
Notify Your Employer Immediately: Regardless of the severity of the injury, always let your boss or manager know right away. Minor injuries can escalate, and timely reporting can make a significant difference in your claim’s success.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: Your well-being comes first. While your employer or their workers’ compensation insurer might direct you to their doctor initially, you have the right to see your own doctor for subsequent visits. Ensure your chosen physician is aware to bill through workers’ compensation and that they closely document your prognosis, treatment plan, and progress.
Don’t Wait. Insurers only have 14 days to pay or deny your claim. Learn how to improve your chances of having your claim approved.
Why Is It Important to Report A Work Accident and Injury Immediately?
If you were injured on the job in Massachusetts, it is critical that you immediately report your injuries. The ramifications of failing to report your work accident immediately could severely compromise your workers’ compensation claim. Delays might be perceived as red flags by the workers’ compensation insurer.
A common suspicion arises: Was the injury genuinely sustained at work? If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, the stakes are high. The fallout of a claim denial, especially for a genuine workplace injury, can impose significant distress and hardship on the injured party.
Reporting Injuries: Key Regulations and Procedures
When it comes to reporting your injury, understanding Massachusetts regulations is crucial:
An injury must result in a disability spanning 5 full or partial calendar days to warrant a report to the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA). Note, these days don’t need to be consecutive.
Employers have a window of 5 business days (excluding Sundays and legal holidays) once they are notified that the injured worker will be incapacitated for five full or partial days, to report the injury to their insurer and the DIA. This reporting is done via the Form 101 – Employer’s First Report of Injury/Fatality, which must be filed electronically, as paper forms are no longer accepted.
If the disability lasts less than 5 days, it falls under a “medical only” claim.
Why Engaging a Work Accident Attorney is Crucial
Don’t Navigate Alone. Even if your employer assures you of their support, complexities often arise in workers’ compensation claims. An experienced work accident lawyer, like myself, can guide you, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Insurance Company Tactics. Insurance companies are notorious for denying claims. They might dispute the severity of your injuries or question the validity of your claim. With an experienced workers compensation attorney by your side, you can counter these tactics effectively.
Maximizing Your Compensation. Beyond medical bills, you might be entitled to additional benefits, including compensation for permanent injuries, vocational rehabilitation, and more. I’ve helped thousands of clients recognize and claim these entitlements.
Protect Your Rights – Schedule A Free Consultation With An Experienced Work Accident Attorney.
If you or a loved one has been injured at work, don’t wait. Reach out to an experienced work accident attorney today. Remember, time is of the essence, and every moment counts. Your health, well-being, and financial future are on the line.
Injured at work? I offer free consultations. Learn about the benefits to which you might be entitled. My team and I have helped thousands of injured workers get full benefits and defeat insurance company efforts to deny claims. Call today to get started!
