When you’re injured at work, getting medical attention is crucial for your health and your workers' compensation claim. The moments immediately following your accident can be stressful, but adhering to the right protocol is essential for building your case. The following tips are designed to help you understand the appropriate steps for pursuing medical care and weighing your legal options.

Get Help Right Away

Make sure you see a doctor as soon as possible. If you are severely injured, someone may need to call 911 on your behalf. If the injury is minor, you might feel well enough to take yourself to the doctor.

Regardless of the severity of your injury, get checked out by a medical professional sooner rather than later. If your employer has a managed healthcare plan it will require that you first  see their preferred doctor for insurance plan purposes. You will then be able to choose your own physician. While it's important to follow your employer's directions, you should also visit your regular physician for a second opinion.

Discuss Your Injury in Detail

Any health care provider you visit will ask about the details of your accident and the resulting injury. Be as specific as possible when you describe what happened, which parts of your body are affected, and what levels of pain you're experiencing. If you are eligible to file a workers' compensation claim, your medical records need to be an accurate reflection of your condition and the challenges you're facing.

Don't Speculate on Your Injury or Recovery

When talking to your employer, colleagues, and health care providers, do not make guesses about the extent of your injury or how long it will take you to recover. Leave this decision to a medical professional. Avoiding speculation ensures you get the medical care you need and aren't expected to return to work before you're fully recovered. Not discussing your condition can also provide legal protection if you file a workers’ compensation claim.

If you've been injured at work, trust the Law Office of Thomas L. Brayton III. For over 27 years, he has been representing clients throughout the Waterbury, CT, area. Call (203) 591­-8689 or visit his firm's website to schedule a consultation and discuss your workers’ compensation eligibility with a skilled legal professional.