When you get injured at work, one of the first things to do is get medical attention. The reasons are obvious if your injury needs immediate attention, but what if it doesn’t? Why is seeing a doctor still crucial?
It’s because they play a big role in determining what happens next. Their medical report will form the basis of any claim you make for workers’ compensation.
Doctors are busy people, so be proactive in your questioning. Here are some questions you may need to ask:
How long before I can work again?
Your employer will be as interested in knowing this as you are. Don’t let them pressure you to rush back to work sooner than the doctor says, and don’t return early just because you feel fine. Doing so may harm your claim, as the insurer should pay out based in part on how many days you have to take off.
What can and can’t I do in the meantime?
Do you need to rest up in bed, or can you carry out light tasks around the house and garden? Exceeding the limits the doctor places on you could jeopardize your claim if an insurer catches you doing more physical activity than you are meant to be capable of.
Do I have any other injuries?
However minor other injuries may seem, it’s important to document them. If they cause more problems than you thought, it will help you tie them to the accident.
Will I recover completely?
Some people never fully recover from their injuries. Using the example of a back injury, you may be able to return to work in a few months, but it could leave you susceptible to further injury for the rest of your life.
Consider getting legal guidance to learn more about this and the other things you need to do to protect your rights to workers’ compensation.
