Workplaces can be filled with a number of hazards (from safety hazards to physical, chemical and biological hazards) that can result in an unexpected and, sometimes, serious injury. Unfortunately each year many people end up making simple and easy to avoid mistakes that can have a significant impact on their ability to gain compensation after a workplace accident. Five typical mistakes people make after getting injured at work are:
1. Not reporting the injury immediately
After you experience an injury you should report it to your supervisor immediately, do not delay reporting your injury until after a few days or the weekend as if you wait too long it could compromise your right to workers’ compensation.
It is a requirement of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 that employers whose employees suffer certain ‘notifiable’ injuries must notify WorkSafe WA. WorkSafe WA is the government agency responsible for regulating Western Australia’s OSH legislation.
2. Not disclosing prior workplace injuries
Another mistake people often make is not disclosing prior workplace injuries. Even if the injury seems insignificant or you were hurt and didn’t report the previous injury for fear of getting in trouble or losing your job, any failure to report past injuries could result in you losing all of your compensation.
3. Failure to report all injuries
If you sustain multiple injuries from a workplace accident you should disclose all of them when you are filing your first report and when speaking to a doctor. Failure to report other injuries and then bring them up at a later date could appear as if you are attempting to claim additional benefits.
4. Ignoring the advice of medical professionals
Your doctor may recommend daily stretches or exercises, which may seem like a hassle but are important for your recovery. If you ignore your doctor’s advice your workers’ compensation claim may be impacted.
5. Not getting legal advice and representation
Thousands of Australians suffer from injuries at work each year but many people assume their injuries are not worth submitting a workers’ compensation claim over or that they are not eligible for compensation when they might be. That’s why it’s best to speak to experienced and qualified workers’ compensation lawyers in Perth.
At Anvil Legal, we are always happy to speak with you over the phone or to set up a free appointment where you can come in and discuss your injury and claim. Our business hours are 9 am – 5 pm Monday to Friday. Additional information on our workers’ compensation process can also be found here. We look forward to hearing from you.