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Steps to take after a workplace injury

On Behalf of | Jun 9, 2020 | Workplace Injuries |

Workplace injury statistics show that an average of one million occupational injuries and illnesses are reported across the country each year, including in British Columbia. Safety authorities say almost every workplace injury is preventable, and approximately 10% of work-related accidents lead to brain injuries.

Adequate safety training is one way to limit workplace injuries. If workers learn how to identify risks, they will be able to avoid hazards, and steps can be taken to eliminate or reduce the risks.

Although employers are responsible for the health and safety of their employees, preventable injuries continue to occur. In fact, experts estimate that approximately 95% of workplace injuries are preventable.

The importance of prompt reporting

If you are a victim of a workplace injury, you need to report the incident – along with surrounding circumstances – to your employer right away. You should do this even if your injuries do not appear to be severe. Some seemingly insignificant injuries can become worse over time, and if they were never reported in the first place, it might compromise your eligibility for workers’ compensation.

You should also secure the necessary medical attention and have it documented. Some injuries might need follow-up care or even therapy and rehabilitation. Injuries could lead to extended periods away from work, and income losses could seriously jeopardize your financial stability.

Following the required steps after suffering a workplace injury could make you eligible for compensation. However, in some cases, employers may actively attempt to prevent your benefit payments, which could lead to increased insurance premiums for the business.

This is where the skills of a British Columbia lawyer with experience in fighting for the rights of injured workers come into play. Legal counsel can take over the navigation of benefits claims to pursue the recovery of maximum compensation under applicable laws.

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