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What if you don’t tell your employer you got hurt at work?

On Behalf of | Dec 27, 2021 | Workers' Compensation

When you get hurt on the job, it’s important that you do let them know as soon as you can. The Iowa Department of Administrative Services suggests that you report the injury to your employer immediately, although this may not always be possible.

Whenever you suffer an injury or illness that is work-related, you need to complete a First Report of Injury form. This form is something that your employer should have available, so if you don’t tell them that you’re injured or ill, then you may not be able to begin your claim.

Workers who are hurt on the job have a right to seek workers’ compensation. However, they are sometimes confused about how long they have to report an injury or illness before they will lose the right to make a claim. You, as an employee, have a right to seek immediate medical attention if you are hurt or fall ill. You may not have time to tell your employer, but try to tell a supervisor or coworker at the very least.

What’s the latest you can wait to report an injury or illness to your employer?

There are times when you may not be sure that your injury or illness is related to your workplace. It might take a number of medical appointments or tests for you to feel confident that you can link your illness to the workplace, for example.

In that case, Iowa law gives you up to 90 days to notify your employer of a work-related injury. If you miss this deadline but can show that your employer was aware that you were ill or injured because of something that happened in the workplace, then you may still be able to make a claim even if you didn’t outright talk to your employer about the issue.

Getting your claim started is often the most important step to take after an injury. To make this easier for yourself, always talk to your employer as soon as you can after falling ill or getting hurt on the job. Even if it ends up not being related, getting in touch sooner can help you protect your right to make a claim.

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