Slip and falls are some of the most common types of work injuries, and employees should know what to do if these accidents occur. Slipping due to spilled liquids on the floor or falling from a ladder can cause head and back injuries, paralysis, and even death—and it’s important that workers take immediate action to protect both their livelihoods and workers' compensation claim. 
What to Do After a Slip And Fall at Work
The first thing an employee should do after an accident is to see a doctor as quickly as possible. If the injury cannot be treated with onsite first-aid methods, the employee should leave work and go to the emergency room. Even if the injury does not require immediate intervention, X-rays and other diagnostic evidence can be invaluable for compensation claims.
In the days following a work injury, the employee should:
Fill out an accident report.
Most employers require that any injuries on the premises be reported to both the business owners and federal regulators. If possible, you should report the injury to your supervisor on the day of the accident. Your supervisor will need to complete an injury report and file the paperwork before you can seek coverage through workers’ compensation.
File a workers’ compensation claim.
Once the accident has been documented, the employee can file for injury benefits under workers' compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation allows employees to receive benefits for medical bills and lost income without taking an employer to court or proving that the employer's negligence caused the injury.
Consult an attorney.
There are some instances when workers’ compensation is not enough to cover the employee’s injury costs. A worker’s claim for compensation may be denied, his earning capacity severely diminished, or he may experience retaliation from the employer for filing an injury claim. An attorney can examine the details of the case closely to determine whether the employee could file a lawsuit against the employer.
Have You Been Injured On The Job In Rhode Island?
If you've been hurt at work you need to speak with an experienced workers' compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help work injury victims in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.
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