When you’re hurt on the job, it can leave you feeling worried and unsure about what to do, especially if you work for a large company like Walmart. No matter how your injury occurred, you have rights worth protecting. It’s important to understand the steps you can take to get the care and coverage you need.
By learning about the workers’ compensation process and other available legal options, you can feel more prepared to handle the challenges that arise after a workplace accident. Below are some of the most important steps you can take after being injured while working at Walmart.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you believe your injury is minor, it’s smart to see a doctor right away. Sometimes symptoms don’t surface until later, and prompt medical care can stop a small issue from turning into something more serious. Getting treatment as soon as possible also creates a paper trail, which may be valuable if you need to file a workers’ compensation claim or take any other legal action. Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable before getting professional help.
Report the Injury to Your Employer
If you are injured while working at Walmart, let your supervisor or manager know immediately. The company should have a specific procedure for documenting workplace accidents, which could include writing down how the injury happened and who was involved. You’re also required to report the injury within 30 days to be able to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Except as provided by sections 5402 and 5403, no claim to recover compensation under this division shall be maintained unless within thirty days after the occurrence of the injury which is claimed to have caused the disability or death, there is served upon the employer notice in writing, signed by the person injured or someone in his behalf, or in case of the death of the person injured, by a dependent or someone in the dependent’s behalf.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Workers’ compensation covers your medical expenses and a portion of your lost pay if you’re hurt on the job. Submitting a claim usually involves filling out specific forms and supplying documentation of your treatment and lost wages. Walmart’s insurance is supposed to cover these costs, so you shouldn’t be stuck paying out of your own pocket. Following the right steps and meeting deadlines can help ensure you get the benefits you’re entitled to.
Document Everything
Keeping track of every detail related to the safety incident can strengthen your position if there’s a dispute about the cause or severity of the injury. Gather any photos of the work area, transportation receipts for getting to doctor’s appointments, and even notes of conversations with managers or coworkers.
Having this information at your fingertips makes it simpler to fill out forms and to answer questions if the insurance company doubts your claims. Official medical records are also essential, so ask for copies after each visit.
Consult With an Experienced Walmart Injury Attorney
If you feel uncertain about your benefits or think you’re not being treated fairly, speaking with a personal injury lawyer may be your next step. A professional who understands workplace injuries involving large employers like Walmart can explain the process clearly, guiding you on how to proceed. By working with a Walmart slip and fall attorney in Los Angeles, you can avoid taking on the insurance and legal hurdles all on your own.
Understand the Role of Third-Party Liability
Sometimes, your injury may be traced back to a party other than Walmart, such as a vendor, contractor, or product manufacturer. A broken piece of equipment, a defective product, or another form of negligence could be at fault. Identifying this possibility is important because you might have a separate claim against whoever actually caused your injury. A personal injury lawyer can investigate these factors and help you pursue additional support if it applies.
If you have any questions about what to do after an injury you suffered while working at Walmart, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.