I Got Hurt on the Job: What Should I Do?

If you've been hurt on the job, there are several steps you can take to protect your health and ensure you receive adequate compensation for your injury. Start by partnering with a qualified advocate like Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center. Our workers’ compensation program provides high-quality medical care for workplace injuries and ensures your employer has the information required so you can return to work quickly and safely.

Our team has compiled the following guide to help you navigate the next steps after getting hurt on the job.

1. Report the injury immediately

Report an injury to your supervisor or human resources department immediately after an injury. Your report should be in writing and detail the incident and the injuries sustained. Delaying this report can jeopardize your workers’ compensation claim.

2. Get medical attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to get it checked by a professional. In orthopedic or spine injuries, timely intervention can significantly impact your recovery. 

When you visit the experienced physicians at Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center, we complete all required paperwork for workplace injuries to ensure your claim is processed correctly. We mail or fax progress reports and appointment notes to your employer, insurance adjuster, and case managers each time you see one of our physicians.

If you can’t return to your regular duties at work, we outline the return-to-work restrictions so you can perform modified work while your injury heals.

3. Document everything

Keep a detailed record of everything related to your injury — this includes medical reports, correspondence with your employer, and any expenses incurred due to the injury. This documentation will be vital for any future claims.

Understanding workers’ compensation

Workers’ compensation insurance replaces lost wages and provides medical benefits to injured employees. Understanding your rights under this system is crucial.

Most states require employers to cover medical expenses and lost wages for work-related injuries. You’ll need to file a workers’ compensation claim to receive benefits and see doctors like the Nevada Orthopedic & Spine team, who have experience handling workers’ compensation claims. 

Orthopedic and spine care

Orthopedic and spine injuries are common in workplace accidents. Proper care is essential for a full recovery, and seeking care from specialists in the field can lead to better outcomes.

Recovery from an orthopedic or spine injury can be a long journey. We offer personalized treatment plans that may include surgery, physical therapy, and pain management strategies as needed.

Our team also provides ongoing support and rehabilitation services to help you return to work safely and effectively.

Legal advice

If you face challenges with your workers’ compensation claim or require further legal assistance, we recommend consulting a lawyer specializing in workplace injuries.

Use the Fast Track Clinic if you get hurt on the job

Our Fast Track Clinic is for those with recent injuries, broken bones, or sprains. It’s ideal for people who need medical care after being hurt on the job. We provide immediate access to orthopedic care with walk-in service, so you can avoid the emergency room wait and expense.

You can also schedule a consultation if your injury doesn’t require immediate attention. Call to schedule an appointment at our Henderson or Las Vegas, Nevada office.