Despite advancements in safety protocols accidents will still happen. In 2020, there were 194 fatalities due to workplace accidents. While this is significantly less than ten years ago, it’s still too many.
The better news is that, in most cases, accidents at work aren’t fatal. But, that doesn’t mean you should just ignore or dismiss them. There is a protocol that should be followed. Knowing this will help you to avoid the 4 most common mistakes:
- Failing To Report It
Your company will have guidelines regarding accidents in the workplace when they should be reported and even how. In general, the accident should be reported as soon as it is possible to do so.
That means if you are injured but taking yourself to a hospital you can record the accident before you leave. If you’re taken to the hospital the person who first found you can report the accident. You’ll have to finish filing the report as soon as you are well enough to.
Doing the report straightaway helps to ensure all the details are fresh.
- Not Having Reported Previous Injuries
Most employees don’t worry too much about old injuries, especially if they have herald. However, once you’ve had an accident at work and lodging a claim the insurers will look at all details. If they find you have had a previous accident that hasn’t been declared and could have influenced the current outcome, they may be able to reduce or eliminate your current claim.
To avoid this being an issue it’s a good idea to provide your company with information regarding previous injuries received, regardless of who you worked for at the time.
- Choosing Not To Have Representation
Once you have had an accident at work you’re entitled to make a claim. This should reimburse you for the emotional and physical trauma you’ve suffered along with loss of earnings today and potential earnings in the future.
You need to use the services of a good compensation lawyer Burwood. This will help to ensure you get the best deal possible.
Deciding not to have representation means you are likely to come off much worse as the insurance company will use all the legal tactics they can to reduce your claim. You need good representation to handle these and ensure the relevant facts are heard.
It can make a substantial difference to the amount you’re paid.
- Delaying A return To Work
After an accident, it can take time to heal. It’s surprisingly easy to convince doctors that you’re not yet 100% and keep yourself signed off. Your employer will be able to commission independent reports and may even offer you an alternative position in line with your injuries.
Failing to take the position or deliberately staying away from work when you’re capable of working costs the company money. If they discover you’re capable of working and not you are likely to lose all further benefits and may even be fired. It’s better to try the new position as soon as you are able to.