Back injuries are always a hassle because they can seriously affect your ability to move and live a healthy, active life. These injuries can vary a lot, both in how severe they are and how long they take to show symptoms. Sometimes, you feel the effect immediately. Other times, it gets worse gradually, especially if there’s already an underlying issue.
While back injuries often come up in worker’s compensation cases, they can happen in many situations and have long-term impacts. Here are five things you shouldn’t do if you hurt your back at work before getting in touch with an experienced injury lawyer:
1. **Don’t Delay**
It’s important to document your injury right away to support your personal injury claim. Proving that your back injury happened at work can be tricky, especially if insurance companies or employers argue that you already had back issues. If you start feeling back pain, don’t wait—get it checked out immediately.
2. **Don’t Forget to Inform Your Employer**
If you injure your back at work, report it immediately, even if it seems minor at first but gets worse later. Failing to do so can lead to legal issues. Worker’s compensation claims must be reported promptly since they are time-sensitive. The injury must last at least seven days before you can claim compensation, but the payment will be backdated to when you first reported it.
3. **Don’t Try to Handle Everything Yourself**
Back injuries can affect you for life and have a major impact on your quality of life. Since it’s tough to predict future problems, you need a lawyer who knows how to maximize your compensation. Insurance companies and employers typically prefer to settle out of court to avoid lifelong financial responsibility. Trying to manage your claim on your own can make it harder for your lawyer to help you later.
4. **Don’t Argue with a Compliant Employer**
If your employer accepts that your injury is work-related and starts the necessary paperwork with the insurance company, let the process unfold. This step is crucial for your claim. Employers can get stuck between you and the insurance company, especially if there’s a dispute over the claim. Your experienced back injury attorney can handle the negotiation professionally.
5. **Don’t Talk to the Insurance Adjuster Alone**
When the insurance company contacts you, they’re usually looking for you to sign a full release, especially if they believe your claim is valid. Don’t rush into any agreement. If the insurance company is quick to offer a settlement, contact an attorney immediately.
Back injuries are tough cases because soft tissue and spinal damage can result from various activities, making it hard to pinpoint the exact cause. The legal battles can be complex, so always get an experienced back injury lawyer to handle the process for you.