Todd R. Tatro Attorney at Law
Certified Workers' Compensation Speciality

If you have been injured on the job, you’re probably worried about who will pay for the medical expenses. You most likely also have dozens of questions regarding workers compensation, such as:

• How will you pay your bills while you heal?
• Can you be fired for filing a claim?
• Will your job still be there after everything is said and done?
• What are my rights to workers’ compensation benefits?
• Due to my industrial injury, what benefits might be available to me?
• Am I receiving all of the benefits I am entitled to, and if so are they being paid at the correct rate?

Getting hurt while at work can be disruptive to your life and career. A severe job-related injury can even affect the lives of those you love, especially if they depend on you for financial support.

Beyond the initial shock of a physical injury, there is also the potential long and unpredictable process of recovery. The whole incident can cause unexpected financial, emotional, and physical burdens.

If you have been injured on the job, there some basic actions you need to take.

First and foremost, if possible report your industrial accident/injury immediately to your employer and seek medical treatment if it is necessary. Not only will this provide knowledge to your employer of your injury, it will also provide further proof of your injury, and start a road map of your treatment and healing process. Your health and recovery by getting the needed medical treatment should be the top priority.

Again, report the injury to your supervisor and complete a claim from for your accident and injury. Also make note of anyone else who was present or who may be required to prove the validity of your claims later. Make sure to document each encounter and obtain copies of any and all official documentation.

These papers including your completed DWC 1 Claim Form will be important for your lawyer to have once the worker’s compensation claim is opened.

Your lawyer will work to ensure that you never miss an important form or deadline, that your case is being evaluated properly, and will fight for you to receive the best possible settlement or result. In turn, you will be able to focus on obtaining the needed medical treatment to allow you to work on healing without the additional financial worry and strain which can occur without representation.

Most importantly, seek the help of a local professional who handles Workers Compensation cases.