Tips for Staying Safe on Jobsites
If you work in construction, maintenance, manufacturing or another industry that requires protective gear, make sure you always wear your work boots, gloves, goggles, hard hats and other equipment to keep you safe. Unfortunately, even with the proper protection, it’s still possible to be injured on the job. If you’ve suffered a work-related injury or illness, follow these instructions.
Filing a Workman’s Compensation Claim
- Seek immediate medical care if your injury calls for it. Be aware that unless you need emergency treatment, you may need to visit a doctor or medical provider in your employer’s designated network.
- Inform your employer of the injury you sustained as soon as possible to ensure your eligibility for benefits.
- Ask your employer for workman’s comp forms to fill out. Your employer should submit these forms to the insurance company on your behalf, but be prepared to submit them yourself if needs be. In the unlikely event that your employer refuses to cooperate, call your local workman’s compensation office to remedy the situation. (The phone number for the Oregon Workers’ Compensation Division is 503-947-7585 or 1-800-452-0288.)
- Depending on your situation, you may also need to file a separate claim with the state’s worker’s compensation agency. Call the number above for more details regarding your case.
What Happens Next?
- The insurance company will investigate your claim before approving or denying it. You should have an approval or denial within two to four weeks of filing your claim.
- If your claim is approved, you will start receiving benefits.
- If your claim is denied – which is common – you can appeal the decision. This is when it’s time to speak with a lawyer. He or she can advise whether an appeal makes sense in your situation. If you decide to move forward, your attorney can ensure you follow the procedures correctly and protect your rights throughout the process.
- Keep in mind that workman’s comp lawyers typically cost nothing upfront. If your appeal goes through, they take a percentage of your benefits. If your appeal is denied, they get nothing.
If you’re looking for work boots and other protective gear to help prevent injuries on the job, check out what Work-n-Wear has to offer. We have a huge selection of work wear from today’s top brands at low, competitive prices. For help getting equipped for your next job, please contact us online or call (503) 364-3064.
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