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2 reasons why you should see a doctor if you’re hurt at work

On Behalf of | Jan 16, 2023 | Workplace Risks

When you leave home for work, you hope to give the employer your best service, earn a fair day’s wage and get back home to your loved ones. Unfortunately, every workplace has its share of hazards, and injuries happen.

If you sustain an injury at work, California workers’ compensation laws require that you notify your employer as soon as possible. Specifically, you need to inform your employer about your injuries in writing within 30 days. Next, you need to seek treatment. But why is this important?

Here are two valid reasons why you need to see a doctor ASAP if you are hurt at work.

You need to protect your health

This is pretty straightforward – you have a duty to protect your health after a workplace accident. Of course, not all injuries will manifest immediately following a work-related accident like a fall. Seeing a doctor immediately will ensure that hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated in time before they can escalate to something serious. Still, this will help you understand the scope of your injuries and the nature of treatment you require to get back on your feet.

Your rights are just as crucial

Alongside protecting your health, you also need to safeguard your legal rights if you are hurt at work. Under California workers’ compensation law, your employer’s insurance company is responsible for paying your medical expenses as well as other damages that are attributable to your injury. To litigate your claim and attach a dollar amount to your injuries, you must have evidence. And this is where your treatment report comes in. By seeking treatment as soon as possible, you will obtain a medical report that (i) directly links your injuries to the workplace accident and, (ii) outlines your treatment plan and cost.

No one sees a workplace accident coming. That said, if you are hurt at work, it is in your best interest that you seek treatment as soon as possible even if you do not feel pain.