What Steps Should Landscapers Take After a Work Injury?

The steps you should take after a work injury as a landscaper are:

1. Seek immediate medical attention if necessary.
2. Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible afterward.
3. See a doctor if you haven’t, and follow their orders for treatment and recovery
4. Document the incident and your injuries
5. Consider consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney

Our Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyers are ready to answer any questions about the workers’ compensation process. If your claim has been denied or reduced, or you’re facing retaliation after reporting an injury, call the Strong Arm for advice.

How Do I Report a Work Injury to My Employer?

Reporting your work injury to your employer is the first step to claiming workers’ compensation.  Here’s how you should approach this:

• Act promptly: Report your injury as soon as possible after it occurs. Delays in reporting can complicate your claim and potentially jeopardize your benefits.
• Notify your supervisor: Inform your immediate supervisor or manager about the injury. If possible, do this in writing to create a formal record of your report.
• Provide details: When reporting, include specific information about how, when, and where the injury occurred. Be as accurate and detailed as possible.

Georgia law requires you to report your injury within 30 days of the accident. However, it’s in your best interest to report it immediately. Some exceptions exist to this rule, such as cases involving occupational diseases or cumulative trauma injuries, where symptoms may develop over time.

Delaying your report can give your employer or insurance company grounds to dispute your claim. Prompt reporting will ensure you receive timely medical care and benefits.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention for a Landscaping Injury?

For serious injuries, seek emergency medical care right away. Don’t wait for your employer’s approval in these situations. For less severe injuries, inform your employer first and then seek medical attention from an approved doctor as soon as possible.

If you received emergency treatment, follow up with an approved doctor for ongoing care and documentation of your injury. This will help you heal and create proof you’ll need for your workers’ compensation claim.

How Do I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim as a Landscaper?

Filing a workers’ compensation involves several steps. Your employer should provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form. Fill this out accurately and completely. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you with this process.

Next, return the completed form to your employer. They are responsible for submitting it to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier. You can request a copy of the filed claim for your records to make sure your employer sends your claim on. 

Filing a workers’ comp claim is your right. Your employer cannot legally retaliate against you for doing so. If they do, immediately call John Foy & Associates for advice on proceeding with your case.

How Do I Document My Landscaping Work Injury?

Here’s how you can effectively document your injury:

• Take photos: If possible, take clear pictures of your injury and the accident scene. 
• Gather witness information: If any co-workers or bystanders witnessed your injury, collect their contact information. Their statements could be valuable in corroborating your account of the incident.
• Keep a detailed journal: Start a daily log of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injury affects your daily life. This can help demonstrate the ongoing impact of your injury.
• Save all medical records: Keep copies of all medical reports, test results, and treatment plans related to your injury. 
• Record work-related expenses: Track all expenses related to your injury, including travel costs for medical appointments, medication costs, and the costs of any assistive devices you need to purchase.
• Maintain communication records: Keep copies of all written communications regarding your injury and claim with your employer, insurance company, and healthcare providers.

Can I Choose My Own Doctor for a Landscaping Work Injury?

Your employer should have a list of at least six approved doctors, known as the “posted panel of physicians.” You can select any doctor from this panel for your treatment. Your employer cannot force you to see a specific doctor on the list.

If you’re unsatisfied with your initial choice, you can make one change to another doctor on the panel without permission. Follow the proper procedures when selecting or changing your doctor to ensure your medical treatment remains covered under workers’ compensation.

What Should I Do if My Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You can request a hearing before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. This is an appeal of the denial. It’s best to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney for representation at this stage.

Many initially denied claims are later approved on appeal, but your chance of success is much better if you work with an attorney. They can help you get the additional documentation the board needs and present your case.

Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney for Help With Your Case

Now you know the steps landscapers should take after a workplace injury. Get medical attention if it’s an emergency, then notify your employer in writing of the accident. See a doctor, then fill out the claim form your employer gives you and return it to them for filing.

If you have questions about the process or encounter difficulties, a workers’ compensation attorney can be an invaluable ally. Contact John Foy & Associates to speak with our local workers’ compensation attorneys for a free initial consultation.