What if I Didn’t Report My Injury Right Away?

If you have been injured at work, it’s crucial not to delay reporting the incident to your employer. Failing to do so can significantly weaken your claim. Please continue reading to learn the importance of prompt reporting and how our determined Morris County Personal Injury Attorneys can assist you during these difficult times. 

What Are the Consequences of Delayed Reporting?

Failing to report your injury immediately can lead to numerous complications. First and foremost, the longer you wait to report your injury, the harder it will become to prove your case. As time goes on, witnesses may forget critical details and evidence could be lost. It’s important to understand that most workers’ compensation policies require injuries to be reported within a specific timeframe. If you miss this window it could result in the denial of benefits. Delayed reporting can also raise doubts about the legitimacy of your claim, which can lead to increased scrutiny.

Keep in mind that New Jersey is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that an injured party can recover damages as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, their compensation will be reduced in proportion to their percentage of fault. Therefore, the timely reporting of your workplace injury is crucial to safeguard your right to compensation.

What Steps Should I Take if I Didn’t Report My Injury Right Away?

If you find yourself in a situation where you failed to report your injury immediately, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible to safeguard your interests and strengthen your claim. Even if you initially feel fine, you should seek medical attention as it will prioritize your health and create an official record of your injuries. This is imperative for proving your claim and establishing a direct link between the accident and your injuries.

If you are physically capable, you should document everything you can remember about the incident. Keep detailed records of your injury, jotting down your symptoms and any communications with your employer and healthcare providers. You should also notify your employer about the incident, even if some time has passed. Formally reporting the incident later is better than foregoing it altogether. Finally, you should consult an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.

At Lutz Injury Law, we are prepared to help you investigate the circumstances of the incident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf.  If your claim is denied or disputed, an attorney can represent your interests in court, advocating for your rights. Connect with our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you.