Suffering an injury on the job can be a life-changing event. The physical pain, stress about lost wages, and concerns about how to pay medical bills can be overwhelming. If you’ve been hurt while working in Missouri, it’s important to act quickly and carefully to protect your rights. At T.K. Thompson & Associates, we help workers across Missouri understand their legal options and pursue the benefits they deserve under state workers’ compensation laws.

Here’s what you should do immediately after a workplace injury:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health comes first. If your injury is an emergency, don’t wait—go to the nearest hospital or urgent care facility. For non-emergency injuries, Missouri law requires that your employer provide medical treatment, so be sure to notify them and ask for the authorized healthcare provider. Going outside the approved network could impact your benefits.

2. Report the Injury to Your Employer

Under Missouri law, you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident. It’s best to do this in writing and include the date, time, location, and a brief description of how the injury occurred. Failing to report your injury within this timeframe could result in a denial of workers’ compensation benefits.

3. Document Everything

Start keeping a record of your injury and how it affects your life. This includes:

• Photos of the injury and accident scene (if applicable)
• Copies of medical reports and bills
• Notes on missed workdays and physical limitations
• Communications with your employer and the insurance company

Detailed documentation can be essential if there’s a dispute about your claim.

4. Understand Your Rights Under Missouri Workers’ Compensation Law

Most employers in Missouri are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your claim is accepted, you may be eligible for:

• Medical treatment paid by your employer’s insurance
• Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits while you recover
• Permanent partial or total disability benefits if you suffer lasting harm
• Mileage reimbursement for travel to medical appointments

However, employers or insurers sometimes dispute or undervalue claims. That’s where legal guidance can make a difference.

5. Speak with a Missouri Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you’re unsure about your rights, feel your benefits are being delayed, or believe your employer is retaliating against you for filing a claim, it’s time to speak with an attorney. At T.K. Thompson & Associates, we offer guidance tailored to Missouri law and fight to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.

Conclusion

Acting promptly after a workplace injury is crucial—not just for your health, but also for your financial security. Whether you’re dealing with a denied claim, insufficient medical care, or lost income, you don’t have to face it alone. T.K. Thompson & Associates is here to help Missouri workers get the support they need to move forward with confidence.