What must an employee do immediately after sustaining a work-related injury?

An employee must report the injury to their employer promptly after sustaining a work-related injury because timely reporting is a critical step in the workers' compensation process. This action ensures that the employer is aware of the injury and can initiate the necessary protocols to address it, including arranging for medical treatment, documenting the incident, and filing a workers' compensation claim if applicable. Prompt reporting helps protect the employee's rights to workers' compensation benefits, as delays can complicate the claim process or even result in denial of benefits.

Seeking a lawyer or filing a lawsuit against the employer is not the first step and may not be necessary unless there are disputes regarding the claim or if negligence on the employer's part is being considered. Leaving work until fully recovered might not be practical or necessary; the employee's first responsibility is to inform the employer to ensure appropriate care and documentation.