Sustaining a work injury can be off-putting and uncomfortable at best, and life-altering and career-jeopardizing at worst. That's why it's crucial to know what to do if you're injured at work and the proper channels you need to follow to protect yourself. Below is a brief introduction to what you should do if you're injured at work.

Seek Medical Attention

All other issues should take a backseat to your health. Get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible after you've been injured at work. Your injury may warrant a trip to the emergency room, or your employer might want you to see a doctor of their choosing; it largely depends on the seriousness of your injuries. But whenever possible, seek medical attention for any workplace injuries, even if they are minor; remember: many injuries don’t present themselves right away.

Report Your Injury

An accident report protects you in the event you have to pursue workers' compensation or take legal action against your employer. The report also safeguards your employer by having written evidence of the injury and the circumstances surrounding it. Reporting your injury should be of the utmost priority, second only to getting medical attention.

Complete Workers' Compensation Paperwork

If your injury is going to impact your ability to perform your job, you have a right to seek workers' compensation. Workers' comp laws are in place for situations exactly like this. Visit your state's workers' comp website to access the forms you'll need to complete and submit; New York's workers' compensation forms and more information are found here.

Daniel R. McComb Attorney at Law, is a workers' compensation attorney serving the Batavia area; he also offers representation as a personal injury and wrongful death lawyer. Call (585) 343-2250, visit him online, or connect with him on Facebook to schedule a consultation today. By knowing your rights and responsibilities, you can start seeking the compensation you need to move forward with your life.