Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common types of workplace injuries. Contrary to what you may believe, they can happen at any job, even office jobs.
You do not need to work at a job involving physical labor or hazardous machinery to slip and fall at work. Your workplace environment might be cluttered with cords, wires or furniture or a wet spot on the floor could cause you to fall.
Seek immediate medical treatment
There are a few steps you should take after a slip and fall accident at work. Seek medical treatment as soon as you can even if you do not believe you were badly hurt.
Some symptoms from serious injuries can take days or weeks to appear and start preventing you from working or performing your daily tasks.
Additionally, if you wait too long to see a doctor, your employer could argue that your injuries are not work-related.
Document the accident scene
Document the scene of the slip and fall. Take pictures of the conditions at the time of the accident, including the cause of the fall. Write down everything you can remember about the incident, including the atmosphere at the time and exactly what you did.
Speak with any co-workers who witnessed the accident. They may be able to provide valuable information.
Report the slip and fall accident to your employer. You must do this to start the workers’ compensation claim process. Do this as soon as you can after the accident.
Filing for workers’ compensation
Since your fall occurred at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Filing a claim for benefits through the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation can provide you with benefits while you cannot work.
The workers’ compensation claim filing process involves various steps and requirements. There are also deadlines you must meet. It is important to complete everything promptly and correctly to increase your chance of receiving benefits.