When In Doubt, Report The Injury

Picture this: While at work, your employee gets a minor cut on her finger. The injury doesn’t seem like a big deal so it doesn’t get reported. A few days later, the cut hasn’t healed; in fact, it’s gotten worse. Your employee sees a doctor, who diagnoses an infection that requires extensive medical treatment. Now that the injury has become more severe, you file a First Report of Injury.

What if you had filed a claim and your employee had seen a doctor right away? Could the infection have been prevented and extensive care been avoided? There’s no way to know, but chances are taking action could have mitigated the severity of the injury. So, how do you know when to file the report?

• What if the injury is minor? Do I still need to file a report?
• When in doubt, call us to file a First Report of Injury, no matter how minor it seems. The sooner we’re aware of the situation, the sooner we can facilitate treatment or investigate the situation further. Just like you, we want to see your employee feeling better quickly.
• Is there any case in which I shouldn’t report an injury?
• If an incident takes place and no one is hurt or has the potential for injury, you may choose not to file a report. But, we strongly recommend that you investigate the incident and use it as an opportunity to institute the appropriate safety practices.
• How will filing a First Report of Injury impact my premium?
• As with all insurance coverage, a claim has the potential to impact your premium. Remember this, though: The downside of not reporting is far worse in the long run. If you have concerns about how claims may impact your premium, contact your agent or Pinnacol.
• What if my employees don’t tell me about an injury?
• Educate your employees on the importance of workplace safety and make sure they feel comfortable notifying you of any workplace injury, big or small. That way, you can work together to be proactive and ensure your workplace is a safe place for everyone.

While we’re always ready to help with a claim, we love to help prevent injuries before they happen. Check out our Resources section for information and training to keep your employees safe. Questions? That’s what we’re here for. Contact us at (303) 361-4000.