The moments following a workplace accident are often confusing and stressful. Whether you’ve suffered a minor strain or a more serious injury, the immediate steps you take can significantly impact your recovery and your workers’ compensation claim.
For Queensland workers, knowing the right actions to take in the critical first 24 hours can make all the difference between a smooth claims process and unnecessary complications.
This guide outlines the five most important steps to take after a work-related injury to protect your health and your right to proper compensation.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first. If you’ve experienced a work accident, seek medical attention right away—even if the injury seems minor. Some workplace injuries may seem insignificant at first but can worsen over time and potentially lead to further injury or long-term health issues.
What to do:
- For serious injuries, go to the emergency room or call an ambulance
- For less severe injuries, visit your treating doctor or a medical centre
- Be honest and thorough when describing how the injury occurred
- Explain that it’s a work-related injury or illness
- Ask your doctor to provide a work capacity certificate (previously called a medical certificate)
- Keep copies of all medical bills and treatment costs
- Follow all medical advice to support your recovery
Remember that WorkCover Queensland or your employer’s self-insured program typically covers reasonable medical expenses related to workplace injuries, but you need proper documentation from the start.
2. Report the Incident to Your Employer
Queensland law requires you to report your workplace injury to your employer as soon as possible. Failing to report promptly could complicate your workers’ compensation claim later.
What to do:
- Notify your supervisor or manager immediately about the accident
- Ask for an incident report form to document the details
- Include specifics about how, when, and where the injury occurred
- Note any witnesses to the work accident
- Take photos of the accident scene if possible and safe to do so
- Keep a copy of the completed incident report
- Make note of any unsafe work process or conditions that contributed to your injury
Accurate records of the incident will be crucial if you need to lodge a claim for weekly compensation or pursue a common law claim for damages later.
3. File a WorkCover Claim
For most Queensland workers, the next step is to file a workers’ compensation claim with WorkCover Queensland. The sooner you start this process, the sooner your claim can be assessed and you might start receiving benefits.
What to do:
- Lodge a claim with WorkCover Queensland within 6 months of the injury
- Complete the claim form with all relevant details about your work-related injury
- Include your work capacity certificate from your doctor
- Provide any supporting documentation, such as the incident report
- Keep a copy of your claim submission and any confirmation
- Note the claim number for future reference
If your employer is self-insured, you’ll need to follow their specific process for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer is required by law to provide support throughout this process.
4. Document Everything
Maintaining accurate records from day one is essential for your workers’ compensation claim and any potential common law claim for damages like lost wages and economic loss.
What to do:
- Keep a daily journal documenting your symptoms and recovery
- Save all correspondence with your employer and WorkCover Queensland
- Track all medical bills and expenses related to your injury
- Record any impact on your daily activities
- Note names and contact details of anyone you speak with about your claim
- Document any rehabilitation program recommendations
- Keep records of travel to medical appointments
These detailed records can help ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve for your injury or illness.
5. Consider Seeking Legal Advice
For serious injuries or complicated claims, consulting with a lawyer experienced in workers’ compensation can protect your interests. A qualified lawyer can help navigate the legal process and maximise your compensation.
When to seek legal advice:
- If your claim is rejected
- For permanent impairment cases
- If you’re considering a common law claim
- When you’re unsure about accepting a lump sum compensation offer
- If suitable duties or your rehabilitation program seem inappropriate
- When your employer pressures you to return to work before you’re ready
- If you have concerns about the claims process
Remember that many Queensland injury lawyers work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you can get advice without upfront costs.
Next Steps for Queensland Workers
After the first 24 hours, focus on your recovery while staying engaged with your workers’ compensation claim. Cooperate with your rehabilitation program and any return-to-work plans that include appropriate alternative duties.
If your injury results in ongoing issues, you may be entitled to additional compensation beyond the basic WorkCover claim. Serious injuries might qualify for lump sum compensation or damages through a common law claim.
Remember that every workplace injury is different, and the specific process will depend on your circumstances. The actions you take in those first 24 hours set the foundation for your claim and recovery journey. At South East Injury Lawyers, we specialise in helping injured Queensland workers navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation system. Contact us for a free consultation if you have questions or concerns about your work injury claim.
