Workplace injuries can cause serious harm to employees, and oftentimes, employees tend to avoid speaking up and raising the red flag. Work injuries not only come with immense physical pain but also result in a financial burden. However, ignoring or downplaying an injury is never a wise decision since it can cause long-term harm to your overall health.
Keep reading for more information on why you should never downplay a work injury and the steps you can take to avoid such situations.
Underreporting a Work Injury Can Delay Diagnosis & Treatment
If you experience an injury, it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately. Delaying this process can not only put a future workers’ comp claim in jeopardy, but it can also mean delaying an important medical diagnosis and treatment.
When you meet with a medical professional, be as descriptive and thorough as possible when describing what you’re feeling. Even if you think you have suffered a mild injury, it’s always better to get it checked by a professional. Ignoring the symptoms can put your health in jeopardy and result in long-term medical conditions.
You May Lose Financial Support
Workplace injuries often result in financial burdens, such as medical bills and days off from work. If you report your injury early, you can receive financial aid and support from your employer. This support can help you cover your medical expenses and other financial responsibilities that arise due to your work injury.
Downplaying a work injury can make it seem like you’re OK when you’re not. This means your employer and medical professionals may not take your claim as seriously, and workers’ comp may not provide the full benefits you may really need.
You May Not Have Legal Protection
Reporting your injury in time also helps you qualify for legal protection. Every company is required to provide occupational health and safety standards to its employees, and if you suffer from an injury due to their negligence, you can be eligible for financial compensation. But, if you don’t report the injury in time, you might lose your legal rights and be left with no option to seek financial assistance.
You Can Prevent Others from Becoming Injured
Reporting any injury also helps to promote a safer working environment. If you report an accident, your employer can take necessary measures to avoid any similar incidents in the future. It can also prompt your employer to review the safety protocols and improve the overall safety of the workplace.
You Can Gain Peace of Mind
It’s worth mentioning that being honest about your injury can provide you with peace of mind. If you don't report an injury, you might feel hesitant and guilty about it. However, when you report the injury and take necessary actions, you put an end to such feelings.
Contact Us for Legal Assistance
Downplaying a work injury is not only harmful to your physical health, but it can also cause emotional stress and financial burden. It’s always advisable to seek medical attention immediately and report the injury to your employer.
If you need help with workers’ compensation in California, contact Smolich and Smolich for legal assistance.