How Can I Get Time Off For My Work-Related Injury?

Workers' compensation laws ensure that employees are compensated for any injuries sustained on the job, while also protecting companies from being sued by their employees.  If you've been injured at work, your employer might be legally obliged to compensate you for hours that you missed as a result.  You can even get compensated for half days and non-consecutive days.  To ensure that you get the time off that you need, and are paid for it, follow these steps.

Do the Paperwork

One of the first things you should do after a workplace injury is file an accident report.  Be sure to do this even if you don't think you are injured because some injuries don't manifest until afterwards.  Look up workers' comp laws in your state or ask you HR representative to find out how much time after an accident you have to fill out a report.  You should also know that your supervisor has to fill out an injury report form as well and you are entitled to a copy of the claim.  

Go to the Doctor

As was just mentioned, you might not know right away if you are seriously injured.  If you've fallen on your back or hit your head, this is especially serious.  Go to the doctor as soon as you can to determine whether you have sustained a serious injury.  Your company may require you to visit a doctor of their choosing.  If this is the case and you don't feel happy with the doctor's opinion, you may be entitled to seek a second opinion.  

Find an Attorney or Paralegal

If you think that you may be eligible for workers' compensation, get in contact with a workers' comp attorney who may be able to help.  Picking the right attorney can be difficult, so ask your friends, neighbors, and co-workers if they have any recommendations.  You can also read reviews of attorneys in your area online.  Don't forget to check the credentials, experience, and connections of your potential attorney. Keep in mind that you are entitled to these benefits, so you might not need a lawyer on the case. Often, paralegal services are sufficient to answer any legal questions you have about your case and at a much lower billing rate. Contact a company, like Shemesh Legal Services, for more information.

If you're injured on the job and unable to work, don't let your injury eat into your sick days and vacation days.  Regardless of who was at fault, an injury at work can entitle you to compensation for any days that you missed for medical reasons.  Call an attorney or paralegal to make sure you're getting everything that you need to heal without going broke.  


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