by Laura Garrow

Created on: September 10, 2007

First things first, were you hurt at work? If you weren't hurt at work, they will find out one way or another. If you were hurt at work, fill out an incident report as soon as possible.

1. Let management, or a supervisor know what happened immediately. Let them know, even if you aren't in any immediate pain. Sometimes you could be in shock and not realize you are in pain.

2. Be honest, sincere, and accurate in the nature of the accident. Don't fabricate. Insurance companies are trained in finding the truth, or they will pay to find out the truth. One way or another, the insurance company will seek out anything and everything on you, so honesty is a requirement for your own reputation.

3. Recount the events leading up to the injury in order of occurrence. Be sure to detail the event, the outcome of the event, and what steps you took before, during and after the accident. Don't leave out anything, It will come back to haunt you later.

4. In detailing the events, use a notepad or separate sheet of paper to make a rough draft of what occurred. Then format it properly. At what time of the day did the event take place? What happened? How did it occur? Who saw what happened? Was there anyone else involved? Where did the incident happen? Try to be as clear as possible. The written word is so easily misunderstood.

5. Using your rough draft of what happened, ask for two copies of the incident report. Write as clearly as possible. Make sure your hand writing is legible. Write carefully, trying not to make mistakes. If you make a mistake that isn't easily fixable, use the second sheet and try again.

6. When you submit your incident report, ask for a copy for your own records.

7. Retain the copy in a folder, or somewhere safe.

8. Take out a home equity loan, or personal loan to cover your expenses until your Worker's Compensation claim is in effect. Use the loan money to pay your monthly bills, and buy food. Use it wisely, it will be your only source of income for two months.

9. Call all of your creditors to work out arrangements. Many creditors will allow you to roll back payments, or modify your loans before they are late. It is best to let them know what has happened, and when you expect to be able to pay your debt. Many creditors will not report late payments if you let them know your situation before you are late, and work on resolving the payments ahead of time.

You will need to use the incident report when you visit the doctor the first time. My advice would be to seek your

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