If you’ve been hurt in an accident — whether on the job, out in public or on someone else’s properly — it’s common to want to simply forget about it and move on. Often, we are embarrassed to consider legal action out of fear that it will attract unwanted attention our way.

However, there are several compelling reasons why you should consult with a lawyer following an injury:

• The extent of your injuries may not be immediately evident. Recouping medical expenses is the number one reason why people file personal injury lawsuits. Even a minor injury can result in medical bills that add up to tens or hundreds of thousands — a large portion of which may not be covered by insurance.Even if you feel fine in the aftermath of an accident, it’s important to consult with both a lawyer and a doctor. They can help you determine the potential for future health issues and the possibility of recouping the expenses associated with them.
• A long-term disability can affect your future earning potential. Medical bills aren’t the only financial implication of an injury on the job. Long-term disabilities — including psychological issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder — can affect your ability to either hold a job or advance your career.
• You can help make the workplace safer for others. Often, filing a lawsuit is the best way to affect permanent change in the workplace. If your injury is the result of managerial neglect, misguided policy or poor training, filing a lawsuit that exposes these issues can prevent future employees from suffering in the same way you did.

What Should I Do If I Am Injured on the Job?

• Get medical attention for your injuries. As noted above, the immediate effects of an on-the-job injury may not be readily apparent. Before doing anything else, make sure you have received appropriate first aid or medical attention.
• Notify your supervisor. If the accident is severe enough, your supervisor will need to fill out an incident report. This will help ensure a potential insurance claim is processed quickly, and it can be important evidence if the matter has to go to court.
• Gather your own evidence. If you are able to, collecting evidence is one of the more important things to do after a work injury. Take photos, get the names and contact information of any witnesses, and record exactly what happened so you don’t forget.
• Talk to a personal injury lawyer. Whether your accident is covered by insurance or not, a work injury lawyer can help you navigate the confusing road ahead. Speaking with a lawyer doesn’t necessarily mean you have to sue — it simply gives you a more balanced picture of your options for protecting your interests.
• Don’t return to work until you are fully healed. Most importantly, take the time to get better before attempting to return to work. Speak with your doctor about what you can and can’t do, and remember that avoiding stress plays a very real role in your recovery. If you’re worried about lost wages, that is an issue that can be discussed with a personal injury lawyer.

For assistance with any personal or work injury law issues in Delaware, contact the legal team at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya today.