Accidents can happen anywhere, even at the workplace.
If an employee is following the rules of the employer at the time of the accident, it is possible to receive compensation.
This means employees could be paid for pain and suffering, as well as having medical bills covered for the accident.
Unfortunately, most people aren't familiar with the process of filing industrial injury claims, and employers don't often help to make the process seem any less confusing and convoluted.
Interestingly, many people are afraid to even report the accident in the first place and some even try to hide that they've been injured.
This is usually because they are scared of getting into trouble, or making waves for the company.
A small minority of people even consider filing a work-related injury claim to be a sign of weakness.
This couldn't be further from the truth.
In fact, it's mostly a way of protecting yourself against future medical bills and possible deterioration of your ability to continue to do the job you've been trained to do.
This makes it extremely important to file a claim, so that the injured party can prepare for the eventual need to switch jobs because of the nature of the injury, whether it happens right away, or 15 years down the road.
The settlement could help to pay for training in another field if that becomes necessary.
When a person has sustained an injury at work, he should immediately report the accident to a supervisor.
It will be important to have the details of the accident documented.
This will save lots of trouble later, if it is determined that personal injury claims should be filed.
It is important to give your employer all the details of the accident in writing as well.
Keep a copy of this for yourself because you'll need to know the date, time, and location of the event.
You'll be surprised at how often you're asked for these details and it may feel they're being scrutinised by the employer's insurance company.
This is why it's important to write details down right away while they're fresh and make sure the employer has your version of the events when the industrial injury claims filing begins.
It's also important to go to the doctor right away.
This is a good idea, even if you don't feel it's necessary.
It may turn out that you have injuries from the accident that you weren't aware of until some time has passed.
A doctor will be able to help determine if there are any injuries and how severe they are.
This will help you to determine if it will be necessary to file for industrial accident compensation.
The doctor will also record all the details which will come in handy in proving your injuries to the worker's compensation company.
Finally, you should look into hiring a lawyer.
The employer may be willing to work with you, but that doesn't mean his insurance company will have your best interest in mind.
Sometimes, the employer won't be very helpful either.
Hiring a lawyer will ensure that you have someone on your side, advising you whether you have a case and how much you might be able to receive in compensation.
Be sure you get a professional who specialises in industrial injury claims.
This will ensure you get the best chance of being properly represented and receive what you are entitled to receive.
You can also find lawyers who won't expect payment unless they win, which will be helpful to you.