If you have been injured at work, it can be a stressful and difficult time. The impact of not being able to earn a wage because you have been hurt can have a significant impact on you and your family.
The first steps:
1. If you are injured at work or in the course of your employment you should seek first aid and any further medical treatment, if needed. You must notify your employer of the injury as soon as possible. The notice can be in writing or verbally and will be included in your employer's register of injuries.
2. The employer will then notify the insurer of the incident, and are required to do so within 48 hours. You can also make the notification and the employer is obliged to advise the name of their insurer if you ask for it.
3. Once you have notified your Employer of a work injury you can lodge a worker's injury claim form. A claim must be made within 6 months of the injury or accident or within 6 months of you becoming aware of the injury. There are certain circumstances in which the time limit can be extended. Copies of your recent payslips and/or record of earnings should be submitted with the claim form together with a Certificate of Capacity which has been completed by your Doctor or Specialist.
4. The insurer is required to accept or deny liability for the claim, and notify you and the employer of the decision.
Getting legal advice is important:
The Workers' Compensation Legislation can be complex and difficult to understand, so it’s a good idea to find a Solicitor with experience in this area of law who can help you determine what you are entitled to claim. Our local team will help you understand your responsibilities, the employer's responsibilities and insurer's responsibilities in relation to returning to work following an injury.
If you have been injured at work and need advice about your rights and entitlements, please call one of our experienced compensation team in Bathurst, Lithgow or Oberon on 1800 650 656. We're here to help
Angus Edwards | Principal