A workplace injury can turn an ordinary day upside down in seconds. The aftermath often brings uncertainty, high medical bills and worries about lost wages. Returning to work and daily life can suddenly feel overwhelming.
Fortunately, in Minnesota employees may claim workers’ compensation for on-the-job injuries. Once your employer receives notice of the injury, they file a First Report of Injury with their insurer, which then approves or denies benefits.
Delays in filing paperwork or decision making can complicate the process. Knowing the steps to get the maximum benefits from the claim can make a huge difference, as can getting help from a workers’ compensation lawyer.
Get medical treatment right away
The first step should be seeking medical help to recover from the injury. If the injury is severe, contact 911 or go to the emergency room. For less severe injuries, seek early medical treatment to recover faster and to have records that connect the injury to your job.
Inform your employer about the injury immediately
You should inform your company about the injury right away, even if the injury seems minor. Reporting it early creates a clear record of when and how the injury happened. You should report the injury in writing when possible and make sure the information is correct.
Know which work injuries may qualify for benefits
Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system generally covers all job-related injuries and illnesses. Coverage depends on whether the condition is relevant to an employee’s work, not on the type of injury. Any injuries that you suffer while commuting to or from work are not covered by workers’ compensation benefits.
Keep detailed records
Workers’ compensation claims often depend on strong documentation. Keep a folder containing all documents related to your injury, including:
- Medical bills and prescriptions
- Wage loss information
- Correspondence with your employer and insurer
- Notes about appointments and missed work
Keeping records can help in avoiding any delay and help in proving the severity of the injury.
Moving forward after a work injury
A workplace injury can affect your health, finances and future plans. Early medical treatment and reporting of the injury can strengthen your workers’ compensation claim. Since this process can be lengthy and complex, legal support from a Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney can help protect your right to benefits while you focus on recovery and moving forward with confidence.
