What To Do Immediately After a Workplace Injury

Getting hurt at work is never on anyone’s daily agenda, yet accidents happen. Whether you slipped on a wet floor, lifted something too heavy, or suffered a fall on a construction site, knowing what steps to take after a workplace injury is critical. Acting quickly protects your health, your rights, and ensures you get the compensation you deserve. If you’re unsure where to start, this guide will make things clear. If you ever find yourself overwhelmed, a Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorney can guide you each step of the way.

Report the Injury Right Away

As soon as you’re injured, let your supervisor or manager know. Don’t wait. In Pennsylvania, you must notify your employer within 120 days, but the sooner you report, the better. If you delay, your employer or the insurance company may doubt your story or argue the injury happened elsewhere. Even if your injury seems minor, report it. Small pains can become major problems. And if you lose your ability to work because of the injury, early reporting builds a strong record.

Be clear and honest about what happened. Give details about how and where it occurred, and who saw it. If your work injury happened around co-workers, ask them to write down what they saw too. Always keep your own written record, and note who you reported to and when. If you aren’t sure how to start this process, a work injury lawyer can help make sure every detail is in place.

Get Medical Attention Fast

After telling your employer, get medical care right away. Even if you feel fine at first, some injuries are sneaky. A sore back or mild headache can get much worse over hours or days. In Philadelphia, your employer may have a list of designated doctors you need to see for work injuries during the first 90 days. Ask your supervisor for this list. If you see your own doctor, tell them the injury happened at work and make sure it’s documented in your file.

Be honest about all your symptoms, even ones that seem small. Tell the doctor how the injury happened. Follow all their instructions, show up for every follow-up appointment, and keep copies of all medical records, test results, and bills. These records are key evidence for your claim. If you run into problems with treatment or your employer’s panel of doctors, a workers’ compensation attorney can step in to protect your rights.

Document Everything

Paperwork is your best friend when it comes to workplace injuries. Keep a folder or notebook to track everything. Start with the report you gave your employer, then add doctor’s notes, bills, and letters from your job or insurance company. Write down the names of everyone you talk to, the date and time, and what was discussed. If you miss work or lose wages because of your injury, keep track of those days and your lost pay.

If there were witnesses, ask for written statements. Photos are powerful, too. Take pictures of the accident site, your injuries, and anything else that helps tell your story. Don’t rely on your memory alone—details fade over time. If you need help organizing your claim or want to be sure you’re on the right track, reach out to a workers’ compensation lawyer early on.

Know Your Rights and Don’t Sign Anything Yet

After a workplace accident, insurance companies might contact you quickly. They may ask for statements or offer you a settlement. Never sign anything or agree to a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer. Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible and often pressure injured workers into quick settlements that don’t cover the real costs.

You have the right to workers’ compensation benefits, which may include medical care, wage loss payments, and, in some cases, specific loss payments for permanent injuries. If you were hurt due to unsafe working conditions or the negligence of someone outside your employer, you could have a third-party personal injury claim as well. A Philly work injury lawyer can explain every option and make sure you don’t miss out on money you deserve.

Contact a Work Injury Lawyer in Philadelphia

Dealing with a workplace injury claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re hurt and trying to heal. You don’t have to do this alone. A local Philadelphia personal injury lawyer knows Pennsylvania’s workers’ comp laws inside and out. They can help you file your claim, gather the right evidence, and fight denials or low settlements.

Time is important. Pennsylvania law gives you three years to file a claim, but acting quickly means more evidence and stronger cases. A lawyer will handle paperwork, deadlines, and communications so you can focus on recovery. If your injury is serious or leaves you unable to work, or if your employer disputes your claim, having a workers’ compensation lawyer on your side is key to getting results.

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FAQs About What To Do Immediately After a Workplace Injury

What should I do if my employer refuses to file a report about my injury?

If your employer ignores your report or refuses to document your injury, create your own written record and ask any witnesses to do the same. Then, contact a Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorney right away. They can help you file your own claim with the state and protect your rights from the start.

Can I choose my own doctor for a work injury in Philadelphia?

For the first 90 days, you’ll likely need to see a doctor from your employer’s approved list if they provided one before your injury. After that period, you can see any doctor you choose. Always let every provider know your injury is work-related so it’s properly documented.

What if my work injury was caused by someone outside my job?

If a third party, like a contractor or equipment supplier, is at fault for your injury, you could have a personal injury claim in addition to workers’ compensation. A seasoned lawyer can help you file both claims so you get the full compensation you deserve.

How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim in Pennsylvania?

You should report your injury to your employer within 120 days, but sooner is better. To start a formal claim for benefits, you have up to three years from the date of your injury. Still, waiting can hurt your case, so take action and consult a lawyer as soon as possible.

Injury Prevention, Safety, and Resources

• What To Do Immediately After a Workplace Injury
• OSHA Complaints: When & How to File
• Preventing Workplace Injuries: Tips & Resources
• Top Philadelphia Industries for Workplace Injuries