If you’ve ever been injured while at work, you know it can have devastating consequences on your ability to perform your job. Whether you work in a desk job, in the service industry or in a manual labor job, any type of injury can prevent you for being able to complete your work. And what’s worse, you could be let go from your job for your inability to complete work. Before you find yourself in this situation, there are a few critical things to remember:
1. Notify your supervisor right away.
2. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
3. Follow all orders from your doctor.
4. Keep your employer updated on your status.
Let’s jump into why these things are important.
Notify Your Supervisor Right Away
First and foremost, if you are injured at work, notify your supervisor immediately. Many employers have policies in place that require employees to report any injuries sustained while on the job. By notifying your supervisor, you are following company protocol and ensuring that they are aware of the situation. Unless you work directly with your supervisor, they won’t have any idea that you have sustained an injury.
Notifying your supervisor right away is the best way to ensure you keep your employment. If your supervisor knows exactly what happened, especially if it happened on company grounds or on a job site, there’s a greater chance that your job will be protected.
Seek Medical Attention
Secondly, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to go to the emergency room or see your primary care physician. For example, if you are a roofing contractor and happen to fall off of a ladder, you’ll likely need to visit the emergency room right away. It is important to get a professional opinion on the extent of your injuries so that you can begin the road to recovery.
Follow Doctor’s Orders
Third, follow all orders from your doctor. If you are told to stay home from work or take it easy for a few days, do so. Not following doctor’s orders can result in further injury, which could mean more time off from work and a greater chance of being let go. And, if you choose to not follow your doctor’s orders, you could be suspected of fraud. For example, if your doctor tells you to stay home and rest, but you’re observed shopping at the grocery store, your employer could assume you are not as injured as you claim to be.
It’s best to not chance it. Follow your doctor’s orders to a T and avoid any negative outcomes.
Keep Your Employer Updated
Finally, keep your employer updated on your status. If you are cleared to return to work, let them know as soon as possible. If you are still injured and need more time off, be sure to communicate that with your employer on a regular basis. The last thing you want is for them to think you are ignoring their requests or not trying to get better. If your employer suspects you of lying or presenting false information in any way, they have the option to terminate your employment – this is the last thing you want to happen.
Don’t Let An Injury End Your Employment
Injuries at work can have a major impact on your ability to do your job and provide for yourself and your family. By following these simple steps, you can protect your job and start the road to recovery. However, if you need the assistance of a personal injury attorney, be sure to contact your attorney or do a quick Google search for “injury attorney near me” to find someone who can help you.