Work In The Construction Industry? 4 Tips That Will Help If You're Injured On The Job
If you work in the construction field, you know that work-related injuries are a real possibility. Whether it's from a fall, a crushing injury, or an injury involving electrical equipment, the threat of a work-related injury is very real. Because of that threat, it's important that you be prepared for the moment when you're injured at work. No one wants to think about being injured at work, but when you work in the construction industry, you've got to be prepared. If you're ever injured on the job, here are four steps that will ensure you get the help you need:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you've been injured on the job, especially at a construction site, you need to seek immediate medical attention. Some construction-related injuries may not seem serious to you, but you'll still need to have a doctor look at them. If you've fallen from the roof, been knocked unconscious – even for a brief time – or are bleeding uncontrollably, 9-1-1 should be called immediately. This is also true if you have broken bones that are visible through the skin. If 9-1-1 isn't required for your injuries, have a co-worker transport you to the nearest emergency room.
Tell Your Foreman
If you've been injured at work, you need to notify your foreman as soon as possible. If you're not able to do so, have a co-worker make contact for you. Make sure your foreman knows how the accident occurred, who was present, the work you were doing at the time of the incident, as well as what hospital you were transported to. This information will be necessary for your foreman to file the necessary reports.
File the Necessary Reports
Your foreman should file the reports that will be needed for your workers' compensation coverage. However, it's still important that you follow up on your own. In addition, there are other offices that will need to be informed of the accident. Once you're able to, file a report with your company workers compensation provider. You'll need to ensure that they have the proper paperwork for you to begin receiving your cash benefits, as well as your medical care. You'll also need to contact your local OSHA chapter and make sure they've been notified of the accident. If they haven't, be sure to file a report with them.
Don't Wait to Hire an Attorney
Once you've received medical attention for your injuries, you'll need to contact an attorney. The last thing you want to do is delay receiving legal advice, especially when it comes to construction-related injuries. Your attorney will ensure that everything is documented properly and that all necessary reports have been filed in a timely manner so that you can receive the compensation you're entitled to.
For more information, contact a local construction injury litigation attorney.