Steps to Take Following a Workplace Accident

In the immediate aftermath of a workplace accident, knowing the right steps to take can significantly impact the outcome of your workers’ compensation claim. This guide is designed to walk you through the crucial actions to take following an accident at work. From reporting your injury to seeking appropriate medical care, each step plays a pivotal role in ensuring your rights are protected, and your claim is accurately represented. While every incident is unique, these guidelines offer a foundational approach to handling work-related injuries.

Reporting Your Injury: Immediate Action Post-Accident

After experiencing an accident at work, whether it’s a serious or minor injury, it’s crucial to inform your employer about the incident and any injuries as soon as possible. Provide a detailed account of the accident, highlighting if a third party might be involved or at fault.

Medical Attention: Seeing a Doctor for Work-Related Injuries

Seek medical attention immediately. If you’ve consulted a doctor before your accident, you have the right to choose that doctor as your treating physician for your work-related injuries. Even if your preferred doctor doesn’t typically handle workers’ compensation cases, ask for a referral to someone who does. Whether it’s your personal doctor or one appointed by your employer, ensure that you’re timely and consistent when describing the accident and your injuries.

Diagnostic Process: Ensuring a Thorough Medical Diagnosis

Urge your doctor to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis. This often involves diagnostic imaging like X-rays and MRIs. While X-rays are great for detecting bone fractures, MRIs can reveal muscle tears and spinal cord disc herniations and bulges that might be overlooked in an X-ray.

Understanding Causation in Workers’ Comp Claims in Nebraska

Discuss causation with your doctor. Workers’ compensation covers all injuries directly linked to the workplace accident, including aggravations to pre-existing conditions that were previously non-symptomatic. It’s common with conditions like chronic spinal cord disc disease and arthritis. Your doctor should be aware that such aggravations are covered under Nebraska workers’ compensation laws.

Following Doctor’s Orders: Key to a Successful Workers’ Comp Case

Adhering to your doctor’s instructions is vital when treating a work injury. Comply fully with any restrictions and be aware that insurance companies might conduct surveillance. Treatments can include physical therapy, steroid injections, and possibly surgery. It’s important not to let the insurance company’s Nurse Case Manager dictate your treatment or be present during your doctor visits, as these are confidential.

Looking for Expert Advice on Your Work Injury in Omaha?

Dealing with a workplace injury can be a complex and challenging journey, but you don’t have to face it alone. With a deep understanding of Nebraska’s workers’ compensation laws and a commitment to standing up for the rights of injured workers, Theis Law Offices is here to provide the expertise and support you need. With over two decades of experience, Colin Theis has been a steadfast advocate for those impacted by workplace accidents, ensuring they navigate the legal system with confidence and clarity.

At Theis Law Offices, we specialize in workers’ compensation cases, offering personalized legal services tailored to the unique aspects of each case. Whether you’re grappling with the claims process or facing resistance from insurance companies, Colin’s extensive experience and focused approach ensure your case is in capable hands. His track record of going head-to-head with adjusters and attorneys from some of Nebraska’s largest employers speaks to his dedication and ability to secure the benefits his clients are entitled to.

Injuries at work are unexpected and can leave you feeling overwhelmed. But with Theis Law Offices, you have an ally who is committed to helping you receive the medical care and financial compensation you deserve. If you’re an injured worker or truck driver in Omaha dealing with the aftermath of a workplace accident, Colin is ready to help you with the compassionate and determined representation you need. Reach out to Theis Law Offices for a consultation that focuses on your well-being and your rights.