Workplace Injuries Shouldn’t Keep You from Getting Paid
If you have been injured at work due to employer negligence, you should be fairly compensated. It is an employer’s responsibility to maintain a safe working environment, and failure to do so can have devastating consequences for the people who work there. If you feel your injury was not fairly compensated, you may be entitled to take legal action.
What to Do If You Are Injured at Work
1: Seek medical attention right away.
If you have been injured at work, seek medical care either through your primary physician or an urgent care clinic as soon as you can. They will be able to document your injuries, which could prove valuable to your case.
2: Report the injury to a supervisor.
Reports are typically handled through supervisors or human resources, depending on the structure of your particular employer. Verbal reports should be followed up in writing. Arizona requires employers to document incidents and provide the proper paperwork needed to file for workers’ compensation. Delaying this step, failing to formalize it in writing, or not reporting at all can cause delays or denials of benefits.
4: Document everything.
Write down all the details of the incident while you can remember them. Include the time, date, location, and details of the injury. Take photos at the scene of the incident and of the injuries you sustained. Keep copies of all paperwork concerning your injury and healing, including any medical records and any written communication with your employer.
5: Know your rights.
In Arizona, you have 12 months from the date of the injury to file the paperwork for workers’ compensation. Typically, it will cover medical expenses, partial lost wages, and other costs related to your injury. However, it does not always cover everything, and you have the right to consult a personal injury lawyer.
Can I Get Workers’ Compensation AND Pursue a Personal Injury Case?
Yes, you can.
Workers’ compensation covers the employer, and does offer them some immunity from civil suits. However, if there is a third party who is at fault, or if your employer did not meet safety standards, you can file a personal injury case with the Arizona courts.
Examples of third-party liability include:
- An equipment manufacturer who produced faulty and dangerous parts
- A property owner who did not follow safety guidelines, like securing guard dogs
Negligent employers who are open to civil suits are:
- Those who failed to maintain proper insurance for workers’ compensation
- Those who caused intentional harm by failing to repair known dangerous conditions
- Those who caused intentional harm to an employee
Personal Injury Lawyer in Scottsdale
If you are thinking about filing a civil suit because of a workplace injury, the first thing you should do is consult an attorney. They can help you build a strong case so that you get the compensation you deserve. If you need a personal injury lawyer in Scottsdale, contact Van Norman Law Firm. With over 25 years of experience, we are the best personal injury law team in Scottsdale. Don’t let a workplace injury become a financial burden—contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (5/6/25). Photo by Cara Shelton on Unsplash