If you’ve been injured on the job in Virginia, reporting the matter is a key component of bringing a successful workers’ compensation claim that results in the full benefits you deserve under the law. Suffering an injury at work can lead to overarching consequences that can negatively affect many aspects of your life. With so much on the line, it makes it in your best interest to have an experienced Richmond workers’ compensation attorney in your corner from the outset.

Seeking the Medical Attention You Need

The most important first step you can take after being injured in the course of your work is to seek the immediate medical attention that you need. The bottom line is that early diagnosis and treatment are so closely connected to improved health outcomes and records for your claim that you shouldn’t wait.

Even if you don’t think you were seriously injured in the accident in question, it’s important to know that the shock and adrenaline rush you experience can mask painful symptoms that are indicative of health concerns. For example, concussions and traumatic brain injuries, as well as spinal cord and soft tissue injuries, can slip below the radar before more serious symptoms arise.

Getting the medical attention you require is not only the best course of action in terms of your health, which is paramount, but also in relation to your workers’ compensation claim. The insurance company handling your claim is invested in keeping your settlement low, but taking your work-related injury seriously from the start sends a clear message that the insurance company should do the same.

Report Your Job-Related Injury

If you’ve been injured on the job, you need to report the matter to your employer, boss, or supervisor as soon as you’re able to do so. The longer you delay – even if it’s just a day or two after the accident itself – the less emphasis you put on the severity of your injuries. And waiting longer than 30 days can void your opportunity to file a workers’ compensation claim altogether – and to recover fair compensation for the damages you’ve suffered.

The Work Form

Your employer may have a form for reporting workplace injuries, which you should fill out and submit as soon as possible. If they don’t, however, it’s important to create your own and include all the following information in the process:

Your name, position at the company, and complete contact information
The date, time, and location of the accident in question
The names of those who witnessed the accident – as applicable
A brief explanation of how the accident happened
A description of your injuries as well as any related concerns, such as headaches, numbness, pain, and beyond

The Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission

It’s also in your best interest to file your claim directly with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. Your employer has 10 days to report your injury claim to the Commission, but making contact with them yourself helps to protect your claim. While you have two years to notify the Commission, doing so sooner rather than later is always advised.