If you sustain a work-related injury or contract an occupational disease, you need to gather evidence. Evidence can provide crucial information about the circumstances that led to your injury or illness and its severity and extent.
Here are three tips to help you when gathering evidence:
1. Take photos of the accident scene and injury
Take photos of the accident scene and your injuries immediately because things may change. The hazardous condition may be resolved if you take too long to take pictures or videos, and this can negatively impact your claim. If you need immediate medical attention, which means you can’t document the scene, you can ask a colleague to help you.
If you develop an occupational illness, take photos of your worksite, documenting potential hazards as soon as you learn about the disease. If your illness has visible symptoms, take clear pictures of the affected body parts.
2. Obtain witness statements
Collect statements from people who were around when the accident happened. If you need immediate medical attention, take note of the people around you to obtain witness statements from them later. Or you can ask a colleague to help you.
3. Report the injury or illness to your employer
You are required to notify your employer about your injury or illness. Not only does this protect your right to compensation, but the workplace injury report form or the first notice of occupational disease and claim for compensation you fill out can also serve as solid evidence in your case.
Workers’ compensation benefits ensure employees receive medical treatment and wages when injured in the workplace or develop an occupational illness. However, you need to observe certain steps before receiving these benefits. Legal guidance can help you in every step to build a strong case.