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What Should I Do After a Work Injury?

Upset, tired, overworked man.
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A work injury can be a stressful and confusing experience, especially when you’re unsure of the steps you need to take. Whether you suffered a minor injury or something more serious, protecting your health and legal rights is essential. At Haxel Law, we want to help you navigate the process so you can focus on your recovery while ensuring you get the compensation and benefits you deserve.

Report the Injury Immediately

The first thing you should do after a work-related injury is report it to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. Delaying this step can create complications when filing a workers’ compensation claim. Even if you think the injury is minor, reporting it ensures that the incident is officially documented. Many states, including Illinois, have strict deadlines for reporting workplace injuries, so don’t wait.

Seek Medical Attention

Your health should always be your top priority. Even if the injury doesn’t seem severe at first, it’s important to get checked by a qualified medical professional. Some injuries, like sprains, strains, or internal damage, may not show symptoms immediately. Seeing a doctor creates a medical record that can serve as vital evidence when pursuing a claim. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and keep all medical documentation.

Document Everything

Keeping detailed records is essential to protect your claim. Write down the details of the injury, including how it happened, the location, and any witnesses. If possible, take photos of the injury, the worksite, or anything that may have contributed to the accident. Also, document any time missed from work and out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury.

File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

In Illinois, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This provides benefits like medical treatment, wage replacement, and disability coverage for injured workers. Filing a claim is an essential step in the process, and it must be done within the legal time limits. If you’re unsure how to file or feel overwhelmed by the paperwork, an experienced attorney can help ensure the process is completed correctly.

Avoid Speaking to Insurers Alone

After a work injury, insurance companies may contact you for statements or push you to settle quickly. It’s important to be cautious. Their goal is often to minimize payouts, and anything you say can be used to devalue your claim. Before speaking to insurance representatives, consult a workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair benefits.

Steps to Take After a Work Injury

Here’s a quick checklist to help you stay on track:

  • Report the injury to your supervisor right away.
  • Seek medical attention and follow all treatment recommendations.
  • Keep detailed records of the accident, injuries, and related expenses.
  • File a workers’ compensation claim as soon as possible.
  • Avoid speaking to insurance companies without legal guidance.
  • Contact a workers’ compensation attorney for help with your case.

Let Haxel Law Fight for You

Work injuries can disrupt your life, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. At Haxel Law, we’re here to guide you through every step of the workers’ compensation process, ensuring you get the benefits and support you need to recover.

Contact Haxel Law today at (217) 215-4166 to protect your rights and secure your future.

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    "Martin Truly Cares About You"
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    Mr Haxel, Took on a very difficult case for me. He was very knowledgeable about every aspect of the case. Answered all my questions without hesitation. Needless to say, the outcome was way more than I could have expected.
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