Quick answer: After a work injury, (1) get medical care right away, (2) report the injury to your employer in writing as soon as possible, (3) tell every provider the injury happened at work, (4) file your workers’ comp claim before your state’s deadline, and (5) keep copies of every form, note and bill. Missing a notice deadline is one of the most common reasons valid claims are denied.
One wrong step after a workplace injury can cost you weeks of benefits — or the whole claim. The injury itself is not what usually sinks a case. It is the delay: waiting to see whether the pain “goes away,” telling the doctor it happened at home, or reporting it verbally to a supervisor who forgets. Here is exactly what to do, in order.
Key Takeaways
- Seek care immediately — early treatment protects your health and creates the medical record your claim needs.
- Report the injury in writing (email or text counts) and keep a copy.
- Notice deadlines vary by state — from a few days to 90 days. Do not wait.
- Tell every provider the injury is work-related so it is billed to workers’ comp, not your health insurance.
- Keep a simple injury journal: symptoms, missed work, mileage and appointments.
7 Steps to Take After a Work Injury
1. Get medical attention first
Your health comes first. Go to the ER for anything serious — head injury, chest pain, heavy bleeding, possible fractures. For everything else, see a doctor the same day or as soon as possible. Many injuries, like back strains and repetitive-motion injuries, get worse when left untreated.
2. Report the injury to your employer — in writing
Tell your supervisor right away, then follow up with a short written message: date, time, location, what happened, body parts injured, and any witnesses. A written report protects you if your employer later says they were never told.
3. Tell the doctor it happened at work
Say clearly that the injury is work-related and describe how it happened. If the medical record says “unknown cause,” the insurer may argue the injury is not from your job.
4. Document everything
- Photos of the injury and the place it happened
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Copies of every form you sign
- A daily log of pain, limitations and missed work
5. File your workers’ compensation claim
In many states the employer reports the injury to its insurer, but you may also need to file your own claim with the state agency. Federal employees use different rules — see our guide to federal workers’ comp (FECA), and maritime workers should read our Longshore Act guide.
6. Follow your treatment plan
Attend every appointment and follow work restrictions. Missed visits are often used to argue that you are no longer hurt.
7. Ask about your right to choose a doctor
Rules differ by state. Some let you choose your treating physician from the start; others require you to use an employer network first. Ask your employer or state agency what applies to you.
Workers’ Comp Notice Deadlines in States We Serve
| State | Report injury to employer | File claim |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Within 30 days | Within 1 year (Texas DWC) |
| Florida | Within 30 days | Generally within 2 years |
| Illinois | Within 45 days | Generally within 3 years |
| Louisiana | Within 30 days | Generally within 1 year |
| Alabama | Within 5 days (excused up to 90 days in some cases) | Generally within 2 years |
| Other states | Varies — check your state agency | Varies |
Deadlines summarized for general guidance. Exceptions apply (for example, occupational diseases), so confirm with your state workers’ compensation agency.
Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Claim
- Waiting days or weeks to see whether the pain improves.
- Using your personal health insurance instead of workers’ comp.
- Posting about your injury or activities on social media.
- Downplaying symptoms to your doctor.
- Returning to full duty against medical advice.
How Doctors’ Council 22 Can Help
Our network of union-member physicians treats workplace injuries and handles the documentation that claims depend on — coordinating with employers and claims adjusters so nothing falls through the cracks. Learn more about our State Workers Compensation care or find a clinic on our locations page.
Just got hurt at work? Call 1-800-871-0551 or book an appointment — we’ll help you understand the next steps for your care and your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing to do after a work injury?
Get medical care, then report the injury to your employer in writing as soon as possible. Early treatment and early notice are the two most important steps for both your health and your claim.
How long do I have to report a work injury?
It depends on your state. Examples: Texas, Florida and Louisiana require notice within 30 days, Illinois within 45 days, and Alabama within 5 days (excused up to 90 days in some cases). Report as soon as you can.
Can I use my own health insurance for a work injury?
You should tell your provider the injury is work-related so it is billed to workers’ compensation. Using personal health insurance can create billing problems and weaken your claim.
Can I choose my own workers’ comp doctor?
It depends on your state and your type of claim. Federal employees under FECA and maritime workers under the Longshore Act can choose their initial physician; some states require you to start within an employer network.
What if my employer does not report my injury?
Keep your written notice and contact your state workers’ compensation agency. Many states let the injured worker file a claim directly.
This article is for general information only and is not legal or medical advice. Rules change and every claim is different — confirm current requirements with the Department of Labor, your state agency, or a qualified attorney. In an emergency, call 911.
