How to Prove a Back Injury at Work

Back injuries are common workplace injuries. But despite the prevalence of these accidents, it can be challenging to prove that an injury occurred due to a work-related incident.

Proving that your back injury happened at work is crucial to receiving workers’ compensation benefits. What do you need to know about proving your back injury occurred on the job and how can you protect your rights as an employee?

Report the Injury Immediately

The first step in proving a back injury at work is to report the injury immediately to your supervisor. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove that the injury was caused by a work-related incident.

It’s important to document the incident, so make sure you report it in writing. Also, ask for a copy of any documentation created by your employer, and be sure to keep a copy of the report for your records.

Seek Medical Attention

After reporting the injury, seek medical attention immediately. You should do this even if you think you don’t need to see a doctor. The doctor can evaluate your injury, document the details, and provide you with appropriate medical care.

Keep track of all the medical reports and treatment records important for your workers’ compensation claim. The doctor’s diagnosis serves as evidence to show that your injury occurred due to a work-related accident.

Gather Evidence

Collect all the evidence related to your injury. This includes any eyewitness accounts, photographs or videos of the accident scene, and any safety reports or maintenance records. The more evidence you have, the easier it will be to prove that your injury occurred because of a work-related incident. You can do this on your own or ask your attorney for assistance.

Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Proving that your back injury happened at work is not always easy. That is why it is important to hire the services of a workers’ compensation attorney.

An attorney provides you with legal expertise. They help you understand your rights, navigate through the complex court procedures, and fight for your case. An experienced attorney also helps you gather evidence, and document your medical treatment. They’ll present a strong case on your behalf.

Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions

Some back injuries require extensive medical attention, while others may require short-term or long-term medical treatment only. Follow your doctor’s instructions and be willing to undergo whatever treatment they prescribe. Doing so prevents extending your healing and recovery, which may affect your workers’ compensation claim.

Proving a back injury at work is important to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Make sure to report your injury to your supervisor right away, seek medical attention, gather evidence, and consult a workers’ compensation attorney. By following these steps, you’ll be in a better position to prove that your back injury occurred due to a work-related incident.

If you’re dealing with a workplace back injury or any other type of injury suffered on the job, we can help. For more information or to schedule a consultation to discuss your options if you’ve been injured, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.