What to do when I’m injured at work?
Attorney David Greene from Greene & Phillips Personal Injury Lawyers recently appeared on Studio 10 to share important insights about workers’ compensation and what employees need to know if they are injured on the job.
What Should I do if I’m Injured at Work?
The first step after a workplace injury is to fill out a First Report of Injury. This form is really important for ensuring that you receive the benefits you’re owed through workers’ compensation. “If you’re hurt on the job, make sure you tell your employer that you need to fill out the First Report of Injury,” emphasizes David.
Even when injuries seem minor, such as a back strain or a sore knee, it’s still critical to report these injuries and fill out the necessary form. This report is filed with the state of Alabama and sent to the workers’ compensation carrier who will assign a nurse case manager will then reach out to you to manage your case.
If the injury is severe seek medical treatment first. You can handle the paperwork after you are released from the hospital. It’s very important to make sure you get to the hospital and get treated.
What Should I do if I’m Injured in a Work Vehicle?
In some cases, an employee might be injured while driving a company car or truck. This situation could involve both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party claim. For example, if another company truck causes the accident, their insurance may also be responsible for your injuries and can be handled in an additional personal injury claim.
This can make the case more complex, and makes it even more important to work with a lawyer experienced in these types of cases. Look for an attorney who handles workers compensation and has a ou really need somebody that focuses their practice on how to handle commercial carrier cases,” said Greene. Greene & Phillips specializes in these types of cases, ensuring that clients receive the compensation they deserve.
Should I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
Anytime you’re injured on the job, it’s wise to consult a workers’ compensation lawyer. Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to get into the system for workers’ compensation. A small injury today could lead to long-term issues in the future, so it’s better to be proactive and ensure your rights are protected.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer?
One of the most common concerns people have is the cost of hiring a lawyer. Greene reassures workers that hiring a lawyer for a workers’ compensation case is affordable. “The great thing about workers’ compensation cases—or any case at Greene & Phillips, such as auto accidents—is that they are handled on a contingency basis,” he explains. This means that the firm only gets paid if they win the case, and for workers’ compensation cases, the fee is just 15% of the total settlement, which is a very reasonable rate.
You Can Talk to a Workers Compensation Lawyer Today
If you have questions about workers’ compensation or any other potential legal case, Greene & Phillips is ready to help. Call or text us at 251-300-2000, or drop by out office at 51 N. Florida Street.