Table of Contents
Introduction
An injury at work is a serious matter that requires immediate attention. In Alaska, there are laws in place to protect workers who get injured on the job. Knowing your rights and taking the right steps after an injury can help you secure the compensation you deserve and get back to work as soon as possible.
Report the Injury Immediately
The first thing you should do after getting injured on the job is to report it to your employer or supervisor. Alaska law requires employees to report injuries within 30 days of the incident. However, reporting the injury as soon as possible is always best.
Make sure that you give a detailed account of how the injury occurred and any symptoms you are experiencing. Your employer will need to fill out a report of the incident and provide you with a copy. Keep this report safe as it will be important if you file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
Seek Medical Attention
The next step is to seek medical attention for your injuries. In Alaska, your employer is required to provide medical treatment for any workplace injuries. You may also choose to see a doctor of your choice, but your employer will need to approve the doctor before any treatment, or diagnostic test can be carried out.
Make sure you notify your doctor that the injury is work-related, this will help the doctor to fill out any necessary forms and report the injury to your employer. It is important that you follow the doctor’s orders for treatment and attend all appointments, failing to do so may lead to your workers’ compensation benefits being terminated.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you sustained an injury while on the job, it’s important that you file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation is a program that provides benefits to employees who get injured on the job, this includes medical and wage replacement benefits.
When filing a workers’ compensation claim, ensure that you provide all the necessary information so that your claim can be handled quickly and efficiently. Make sure that you provide your employer’s report of the incident, medical records and any other documentation that will support your claim.
Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Some workplace injuries can be severe, leading to high medical expenses and the inability to work for an extended period. If you think your workers’ compensation claim has been denied for unfair or unjust reasons, consider hiring a workers’ compensation attorney.
A workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you get fair compensation for your injury. They will represent your interests and work to secure the benefits that you are entitled to.
Return to Work
After you have fully recovered from your injuries, you can return to work. However, you will need to be cleared by a medical professional before doing so.
Your employer may have to make reasonable accommodations to ensure that your return to work is safe and comfortable. In some cases, it may not be possible to return to work in your former capacity, but your employer may be required to offer you alternative work that you can perform.
Conclusion
Workplace injuries can be devastating, but knowing your rights and taking the right steps can help you secure the compensation you deserve. If you have had a workplace accident in Alaska, report it immediately and seek medical attention. File a workers’ compensation claim and consider hiring a workers’ compensation attorney if needed. With the right support in place, you can return to work and reclaim your life.