This post was updated on 10/03/2024
If your employer doesn't report an accident, you or your coworkers can sustain an injury because of your work. So you can make a workers’ compensation claim.
Time is of the essence when reporting an accident. That's why you have proof and ensure you get the proper medical assistance and time off as needed. Your employer is legally bound to provide you with this leave and compensate you for any treatment necessary in your recovery. If you do not file a claim, you won’t have any compensation or assistance within reach.
The hard part is when an employer denies your claims or refuses to report the accident. If you wait 24 hours before reporting, you risk giving yourself a much harder time throughout your workers’ compensation claim process.
So, what should you do if your employer doesn't report an accident that affects you or your coworkers?
If Your Employer doesn't Report an Accident, Make Sure to Inform it With All the Details
Don’t assume the worst if your employer doesn't report an accident. It may be possible that they don’t have all the information they need to move forward with their report.
Ensure you have informed your employer about the details of the accident, including those involved and the time and date it happened. Have evidence of the injuries handy and keep a copy for yourself. Then, remind them to file your workers’ comp claim to the respective departments.
Seek Out Your State’s Recommendations
It is time to call the Department of Labor if your employer doesn't report an accident. Even if they directly refuse to report your accident. Each state will have a distinct process to fill a specific claim. So you let them know about the entire situation and how your employer won’t cooperate.
For this route, you’ll need evidence and follow the next steps provided by your state’s labor department. They can help you move things along with the process.
Get Legal Assistance if your Employer Doesn't Report an Accident
In situations like this, it can be tricky to rely on the state. It’s especially dicey if your employer is trying to deny the accident. It may come down to your word versus your employer, so it could be better to get an attorney.
From the beginning, it’s relevant to talk to a consultant. Then, if your employer complies, things should go smoothly. If they don’t, then at least you will already know what challenges lie ahead and what steps you can take to get your due compensation.
Conclusion
Nobody wants to suffer an accident, and having issues getting compensation for such an occurrence is even lower in the barrel. Make sure you are reaching out to the right resources so you have a better chance of getting your claim. That's to say, be swift with your actions because workers’ compensation laws tend to shift quite a bit.
Contact a reliable workers’ compensation law firm in Northern California
if your employer doesn't report an accident. Pacific Workers’, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, has an award-winning team of workers’ compensation consultants ready to help. Call 888-740-6434 for a free consultation.
About the author
Bilal Kassem President and Co-founder
Introducing Bilal Kassem, the visionary leader of Pacific Workers. His unwavering commitment to excellence, empowering others at the core of our organization. With a flair for creativity, Bilal infuses fresh ideas into every initiative we take.
Drawing inspiration from captivating stories like “Goosebumps”, he guides our team with determination. Beyond his professional endeavors, Bilal embraces the great outdoors. As a result, relishing adventures such as backpacking and exploring uncharted territories. Sushi is his preferred treat, nourishing both his body and spirit.
In his free time, he enjoys hitting the gym and indulging in blockbuster films. Also, he finds motivation in the legacies of historical figures like George Patton. By leading with empathy, Bilal fosters a supportive atmosphere. This is why every team member feels empowered to excel.