Workers compensation insurance is something that employers are required to carry in order to protect employees who are injured at work. A workers compensation claim that is approved will pay for your medical care and compensate you for time missed from work. But most workers compensation insurance policies require employees to follow certain steps in order for their claim to be approved. If you're hurt at work, do the following:

File an Accident Report

If you want your workers compensation claim to be approved, it is essential to immediately file an accident report after you are hurt with work. The accident report should be documented by your manager or supervisor, and it is a good idea to ask for a copy of the report to keep in your records. Whether you are seriously hurt or think that you only have a minor injury, always file an accident report. Failure to do so can weaken your workers comp claim and increase the likelihood of benefits being denied.

See a Doctor

Getting prompt medical care is another essential when you're hurt at work. Before seeing a doctor you should talk to your manager or the company's HR department to see if you are required to see a certain medical professional — many companies are contracted with clinics or specific doctors to deal with workplace injuries and workers compensation claims. When visiting the doctor, make sure you describe how you injury occurred, and make sure that it is clear that the injury happened while you were on the clock at work.

Make Sure Your Workers Compensation Claim is Filed

In most cases, it is an employers responsibility to submit a claim to their workers compensation insurance carrier. But you can help expedite the process by staying in close communication with your manager to let him or her know the extent of your injuries and the course of treatment that has been prescribed by your doctor. It is also a good idea to ask for a copy of the workers compensation claim; this way you will know that it has been filed and you will have documentation of the information included in the claim.

Consult a Lawyer

Dealing with a work place injury is usually something that can be dealt with without a lawyer, but if your employer or their workers comp insurance company will not approve your claim you may want to consult an experienced workers compensation attorney. A lawyer will be able to review your case and advise you on how to proceed to ensure that you receive the workers compensation benefits that your deserve. Visit sties like http://www.lshlaw.com to start searching for a lawyer near you.