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How to Report a Work Injury in Minnesota: When, How, and What to Say

by | Oct 7, 2024 | WC - Injuries And Illnesses, WC - Work Accidents |

Properly reporting a work injury in Minnesota is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you receive appropriate compensation. This guide covers the essential aspects of when to report, how to report, and what to say when reporting a work injury.

When to Report Your Injury

The golden rule is to report your injury as soon as possible. Here’s a breakdown of the reporting timelines and their implications:

  1. Immediately or as soon as possible: This is always the best approach. Reporting immediately ensures your claim can’t be denied due to late notice.
  2. Within 14 days: This is still considered timely. Your employer cannot deny your claim based on late reporting if you notify them within this period.
  3. 15-30 days: Your employer can only deny your claim if they can prove the delay harmed them.
  4. 31-180 days: Your claim might be denied unless you have a valid reason for the delay, such as mistake, ignorance of facts, or inability to give notice.
  5. After 180 days: Generally, no benefits are allowed unless you were mentally or physically incapacitated.

Remember, even if your injury seems minor at first, it’s better to report it. Some injuries may worsen over time, and early reporting can protect your rights.

How to Report Your Injury

Follow these steps to properly report your work injury:

  1. Notify your supervisor or employer verbally as soon as the injury occurs, or you become aware of it. You must report to a supervisor or to management, reporting to a colleague or coworker is not sufficient.
  2. Follow up with written notice to create a paper trail and prevent misunderstandings.
  3. Use company forms if available; ask your HR department or supervisor for these forms.
  4. Keep copies of any written notice or forms you submit.
  5. Document everything, including dates of conversations and copies of emails or forms.

What to Say When Reporting Your Injury

Be clear, concise, and factual when reporting your injury. Include the following information:

  1. Date and time of the injury
  2. Location of the injury (e.g., “in the warehouse on the loading dock”)
  3. How the injury occurred (e.g., “I was lifting a heavy box when I felt a sharp pain in my lower back”)
  4. Nature of the injury (e.g., “I have pain in my lower back and numbness in my right leg”)
  5. Names of any witnesses
  6. Details about medical treatment, if already sought
  7. Work restrictions, if given by a doctor

Additional Tips

  • For injuries that develop gradually over time (like carpal tunnel syndrome), report within 180 days of realizing it’s work-related and likely to cause disability.
  • Even if your supervisor witnessed your injury, still provide formal written notice.
  • Your employer cannot legally fire you or retaliate against you for reporting a work injury.
  • If your employer doesn’t report the injury to their insurer, you can contact the insurer directly. Find the insurer’s information in your workplace or by calling the Department of Labor and Industry at 651-284-5170 or visiting inslookup.doli.state.mn.us.

Early and accurate reporting is key to protecting your rights and ensuring a smooth workers’ compensation process. By following these guidelines, you can help safeguard your interests and facilitate proper handling of your work injury claim in Minnesota. If you encounter any difficulties or have questions about the process, Midwest Disability is here to help.

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