Nobody likes to think about what’d happen if they were injured at work – but it’s a serious possibility. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were nearly three million non-fatal work injuries and illnesses reported in 2018.
Employees in every industry could potentially suffer from work-related injuries. While office workers may be at relatively low risk compared to other types of workers, certain injuries are prevalent in an office setting. These include:
- Back injuries
- Carpal tunnel
- Slip and falls
- Nerve damage
Therefore, even in your comfortable office position, it’s necessary to know what steps to take if you are hurt:
- Report the injury to your boss. You should do this as soon as possible and preferably in writing.
- Fill out an injury report. Your employer must keep these reports available for all employees. After filling it out, you should ask for a copy for your own records.
- Seek medical care. It’s important to see a doctor – even if your injury seems relatively minor. Not only will this ensure proper treatment, but the paperwork from your doctor can help prove that your injury was work-related.
- File a workers’ compensation claim. You should submit your workers’ comp claim as soon as you can. Under Massachusetts law, you have up to four years to recognize the link between your disability and your job to file a claim.
- Consider hiring an attorney. Workers’ compensation cases can sometimes be complex. An experienced workers’ comp attorney can help you recover compensation for your medical bills and lost wages.
It’s important to note that you must be disabled for five full or partial calendar days before filing your workers’ comp claim in Massachusetts. As you file the claim, remember that you can always consult an experienced workers’ comp attorney in your area. They can help answer your pressing questions.
