A workplace injury claim in Minnesota helps employees in many ways. Wage loss replacements are available if a temporary or permanent disability stops you from working, and medical treatments and supplies are provided for your recuperation. Moreover, vocational rehabilitation services place you in a new job if necessary.
The workers’ compensation system is “no-fault.” You do not have to prove your employer was negligent to receive benefits. However, it is still best to prepare to establish the facts surrounding your injury.
Your employer’s insurance company may question the severity of your situation. A third party may also be involved in the mishap, possibly resulting in additional claims. Having solid evidence avoids delays, disputes, or denials.
So, how do you keep your case strong?
Step 1: Document the Scene
The moments after an injury are critical. If your condition allows, take photographs or videos of the accident scene before anything changes.
Capture the exact location of the mishap, any equipment involved, and environmental hazards, such as wet floors, poor lighting, and broken tools. A short clip can also show context, like how a spill spread across the floor or how a machine was operating.
If cameras are unavailable, draw a quick diagram noting where and how you sustained the injury. These visuals exhibit exactly what happened and jog your memory later.
Step 2: Collect Information from Witnesses
Co-workers or bystanders who saw the incident can confirm the details of your injury. Right after the accident, get their names and contact information. Ask them to describe what they saw in their own words, and, if possible, have them write or record a statement.
Even if someone only saw part of the event, such as the moments leading up to or immediately after, they may still provide valuable context.
Step 3: Get Medical Evidence
Seeing a doctor as soon as possible does two important things:
- Protects Your Health. Get the treatment you need right away.
- Creates a Medical Record. The doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans are official documentation.
Be specific when explaining your symptoms, how the injury happened, and whether you have had similar issues. Remember to keep copies of all medical reports and results.
Step 4: Record Expenses
Your workplace injury may bring more than just medical bills. You might have transportation costs to get to appointments, outlays for medical equipment, or even home modifications. Note every expense to reveal the full financial impact of your injury and ensure you are compensated.
Step 5: Write About Your Injury
Memories fade quickly, especially when dealing with pain and stress. As such, have a journal. Write daily symptoms and express your emotions regarding tasks you can no longer perform at work or home.
Your stress, anxiety, or frustration is real and valid.
Step 6: Obtain Security Footage and Reports
Workplaces should have security cameras. Request a copy of the video as soon as possible; most systems automatically delete old footage after a certain number of days.
Also, obtain copies of police and workplace incident reports, safety inspections, and OSHA or state safety agency reports — these may fill in details you might have missed.
Step 7: Keep Damaged Items
If your injury involved damaged tools, equipment, or personal items like safety gear or clothing, keep them as they are. These physical items can be used as evidence to show the force or nature of the accident.
Work With a Work Injury Lawyer in Minnesota
While you may collect evidence yourself, having professional guidance makes a big difference. Ideally, you should have a workers’ compensation lawyer near St. Paul or another Minnesota location helping you right from the beginning.
Some hesitate to contact an attorney because of fees, but most legal experts operate on a contingency basis. They offer free consultations and only seek payment after they succeed. How will these professionals serve you?
- Preserve critical evidence before it is lost or altered.
- Interview witnesses for accurate statements.
- Coordinate with medical providers for comprehensive records.
- Request security footage and company reports.
- File paperwork correctly and on time.
- Negotiate with the insurance company or the negligent third party for a fair settlement.
- Represent you in hearings.
A work injury lawyer in Minnesota ensures you gather evidence and use it effectively. The lawyer’s ultimate assignment is to advocate for your rights and win.
Recover With Osterbauer Law Firm
A workplace injury claim in Minnesota should be a straightforward process. Unfortunately, in reality, it can be challenging. Some fail to access it, while others receive less than 100% of what they are entitled to. Recovery, then, becomes difficult.
Consequently, evidence is valuable, giving you a strong foundation for whatever you might have to fight for.
At Osterbauer Law Firm, we provide quality legal services. You can count on a personal injury or workers’ compensation lawyer near St. Paul and other Minnesota areas to secure the benefits you deserve.
Call (612) 334-3434 or contact Osterbauer Law Firm online for a free consultation and to start your comeback journey.