If you sustain a work-related back injury, taking the following steps will help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve:
Report the injury: Notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible. Delayed reporting may lead to complications in receiving benefits. A quick phone call or email will suffice temporarily. When in a better position, you must complete the necessary paperwork and follow your employer's protocol for filing a workmans' comp claim.
Seek medical attention: Get medical treatment promptly, and ensure the healthcare provider knows the injury is work-related. They should document this in your medical record.
Document the incident: Keep detailed records of the incident, medical treatment, and any expenses incurred due to the injury. You can start your logbook or journal to document the necessary information and questions you might have for your attorney.
Follow medical advice: Comply with your healthcare provider's instructions and attend all scheduled appointments to support your claim.
Notify the workers' compensation board: File a claim with your state's workers' compensation board, adhering to the specified time limits. The board will deny your benefits if you don't file your claim on time.