In part one of this two-part series, we discussed some factors that are relevant to proper protocol in the wake of a workplace accident, including issues that may arise, and began discussing important steps to take to make sure that you aren’t left hanging when you get hurt at work. Primarily, we emphasized the importance of reporting your injury to your boss or manager. When you file a claim with the WSIB, your employer is obliged to file a report as well. This is standard procedure, and there’s nothing to be afraid of should you choose to do so.
In our era of sitting for hours with poor posture and clicking on computers, repetitive strain issues are extremely common, and while many folks are afraid they’ll be seen as weak if they report this type of injury, the truth is that these injuries are far more prevalent than you might think. They can seriously affect your life if you do not pursue treatment and take the appropriate time away from work to recover.
In part two of this series, we’ll explore essential protocol tips to ensure that when you file a claim with the WSIB, you get the compensation you deserve.
At Goodman Elbassiouni LLP, our team includes lawyers and paralegals with deep experience handling WSIB & work injury claims across Toronto and Ontario. Our firm is committed to helping clients understand how WSIB claims work, so injured workers can secure themselves physically and financially.
If you have been injured on the job and you are experiencing difficulty with your WSIB claim, contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Following Proper WSIB Protocol Matters In Ontario
Accurate reporting, timely medical attention, and consistent documentation can all make a difference when you submit a claim with the WSIB. The organization states that workers generally have six months from the date of injury or illness to claim support and services, and that worker, employer, and health professional forms each play an important role in the claim process.
Keep A Journal After A Workplace Injury
Maintaining a journal about your injury and its effect on your life/work is key because it helps keep dates and facts straight. This is especially important if you have an injury that will develop over time. This way, you will have a clear sense of when it began and when it became a severe problem. The importance of seeing a doctor, which we mentioned in part one, goes hand in hand with the journal, since you’ll be able to cross-check the doctor’s notes with your own personal notes for maximum accuracy.
A journal can also help if your condition involves cumulative trauma or repetitive duties. The WSIB’s reporting materials will specifically ask for details about what happened, what the worker was doing, and, for gradual-onset conditions, the physical activity required to do the work. The notes you keep in your journal may include pain levels, restrictions, missed shifts, treatment dates, conversations with supervisors, and how the injury is affecting daily tasks. Keeping a journal may also help you release some of the stress you’re feeling while you take time off work.
Consult A Toronto WSIB Lawyer Before You File Your Claim
A lot of folks think that you should only consult with workers’ compensation lawyers if your claim is rejected, but this is not necessarily true. Because we offer a free consultation for any prospective client at Goodman Elbassiouni LLP, it’s in your interest to talk to one of our lawyers or paralegals before you file your report.
Early guidance can help you understand what documents may be relevant, whether you should complete a Worker’s Report of Injury/Disease (Form 6), and what to do if your employer later files a Form 7 that does not fully reflect what happened. This can help your chances of filing your claim hassle-free. It also means that, if you need to appeal a denied claim, you will already have a sense of the process and will have followed the rules and fine print properly. If a problem does arise, our team can also assist with WSIB denials and appeals.
Let Your Family And Friends Support You During The Process
Even if you are an extremely independent spirit, the time following a work injury is no time to refuse help. Sometimes, it may be a relief to delegate certain tasks to friends and family members who care about your health and well-being. You can even bring them to a meeting with our lawyers or have them on the line when you call so that they are fully in the loop and can take some of the weight off your shoulders.
Support from people you trust can also help you stay organized with appointments, claim updates, and deadlines. If your condition is affecting your ability to return to work, it may also help to review information about re-employment conflicts and return-to-work issues so you understand what questions to raise as your claim moves forward.
Experienced Guidance For Ontario Workplace Injury Claims
If you’re considering filing a claim with the WSIB, speaking with an experienced legal team early can make the process feel more manageable. Goodman Elbassiouni LLP represents injured workers across Toronto and Ontario and offers practical guidance on workplace injuries, repetitive strain claims, benefits issues, and appeals.
If you’re considering filing a claim with the WSIB, give us a call today at 905-265-1005 or contact Goodman Elbassiouni LLP to speak with one of our lawyers or paralegals. We are here to help.