The Importance of Keeping Accurate Records After a Houston Work Injury
With over 3.3 million employees in the Houston, Texas area, accidents are bound to happen. Suffering a work injury can be a life-altering experience, leaving you with physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you have been hurt on the job, the importance of keeping accurate records after a work injury cannot be overstated. These documents, along with the guidance of an experienced work accident attorney in Houston, are essential to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
What Records Should You Keep and WhyThe short answer is that you should keep records of everything pertaining to your work injury. However, you should pay particular attention to the types outlined below.
Incident Reports and DocumentsAfter a work injury, it is essential to document the incident as thoroughly as possible. This includes recording the:
- Location, date, and time
- Details of how the accident occurred, especially any contributing factors such as:
- Hazardous conditions
- Faulty equipment
- Safety violations
- Name/Names of the injured and of witnesses present
- Any immediate steps that were taken by the injured or the employer (such as calling 911 in cases of serious injury)
Promptly report the work injury to your supervisor or employer. Many states have specific deadlines for reporting work injuries. In Texas, you have 30 days to report. Failing to report the injury within the specified time frame could jeopardize your ability to receive workers' compensation benefits. Be sure to keep copies of any worker’s compensation records.
Medical Treatment RecordsKeep accurate and comprehensive medical records of your injuries and the treatment you receive. This includes:
- Medical reports
- Diagnoses
- Treatment plans
- Prescriptions
- Other medical expenses incurred
Medical records serve as essential evidence of the extent of your injuries and can serve as the basis for determining just compensation.
Expenses and LossesMaintain records of all expenses and losses related to your work injury. This includes not only the aforementioned medical bills, but also travel costs, wages lost due to time off work, and any other out-of-pocket expenses.
Communications with Employers and Insurance CompaniesKeep copies of all communications with your employer, their insurance company, or any other parties involved in the claim process. This includes emails, letters, and any written or verbal agreements. Accurate records of communication can prevent misunderstandings and provide evidence in case of disputes.
Witnesses Statements and TestimoniesIf there were any witnesses to the work injury, gather their contact information and statements regarding what they saw. Witness testimonies can strengthen your case and provide independent accounts of the accident.
The Role of Houston, Texas Work-Related Injury Attorneys at Carabin ShawMaintaining accurate records while navigating the aftermath of a work injury can be overwhelming. Seeking the guidance of an experienced Houston-based work-related injury lawyer can ease the burden and ensure your rights are protected. Our team of dedicated attorneys specialize in workplace injury cases and are committed to securing the best possible outcome for our clients.
Keep Your Records and Call UsKeeping accurate records and contacting an attorney after a work injury are essential steps in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
A Houston Tx personal injury attorney with Carabin Shaw can support you during this challenging time. Don’t just take our word for it, check out Carabin Shaw’s client reviews then call us toll-free at 800-862-1260.
If you or a loved one has suffered a work injury, contact our English and Spanish speaking team, 24/7 for a free case review and initial consultation. Let us provide you with substantial Houston workplace injury legal help and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve, so you can focus on your recovery.
For more information: