A workplace injury can occur in seconds, yet its impact can last for months, years, or even a lifetime. Medical bills, time off work, and uncertainty about next steps can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed.
Missouri workers’ compensation exists to help, but the system has rules. The steps you take immediately after an injury can strongly affect whether your claim is approved and how much support you receive.
Here are the first three steps every injured Missouri worker should take.
Step One: Report the Injury Immediately
Your employer must know about the injury before a workers’ compensation claim can move forward. Missouri law requires injured workers to report their injuries as soon as possible, typically within 30 days.
Tell your supervisor, manager, or employer in writing, and include:
- When the injury happened.
- Where it happened.
- How it happened.
- What part of your body was injured?
Keep a copy for your own records. Delays or vague reports can give insurance companies grounds to question whether the injury occurred at work.
If your symptoms developed over time, such as back pain or repetitive motion injuries, report them as soon as you realize they may be work-related.
Step Two: Get Medical Care From the Right Provider
Medical treatment protects both your health and your claim. However, Missouri workers’ compensation gives employers and their insurers significant control over which doctors you see.
In most cases, your employer or its insurance company chooses the authorized treating physician. If you go to your own doctor without approval, those visits may not be covered.
If it is an emergency, seek immediate care. Then notify your employer as soon as possible.
Be honest and detailed with every provider about:
- How the injury occurred.
- Your pain levels and limitations.
- Any symptoms that develop later.
Follow the doctor’s instructions, keep appointments, and save all paperwork. Gaps in treatment or missed visits can be used to argue that the injury is not serious.
Step Three: Protect Your Rights Early
After a workplace injury, you may hear from supervisors, human resources, or insurance adjusters. They may seem helpful, but they are also watching for ways to limit costs.
Before signing forms or providing recorded statements, it is crucial to understand your rights.
Our attorney can:
- Explain what benefits you may qualify for.
- Make sure your claim is filed correctly and on time.
- Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf.
- Evaluate whether a third party may also be responsible.
While workers’ compensation covers medical care and partial wage replacement, it does not pay for pain and suffering. In some cases, another company, driver, property owner, or manufacturer may share responsibility. Those situations may allow additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits.
Speaking with our St. Louis workers’ compensation attorney early helps ensure no vital opportunity is missed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Missouri Workplace Injury
A few simple missteps can put a claim at risk.
Try to avoid:
- Waiting weeks before reporting the injury.
- Posting about the accident on social media.
- Ignoring the doctor’s orders or skipping appointments.
- Returning to heavy work too soon.
If you are unsure what to do, ask questions. It is always easier to prevent a problem than to fix one later.
The Gogel Law Firm Helps Injured Missouri Workers
You should not have to face medical bills and lost income alone after a workplace injury. At The Gogel Law Firm, our attorney helps injured workers understand the process, avoid costly mistakes, and pursue the full benefits and compensation available under Missouri law.
If you were hurt at work, contact The Gogel Law Firm at (314) 370-8173 or online for a free consultation. Our attorney will review your situation, answer your questions, and help you take the next steps with confidence.
