What Should I Do If I’m Injured On the Job?

Getting injured on the job can leave you feeling overwhelmed and confused. What are you supposed to do now? How does insurance work, and how are you supposed to survive while taking time off work? 

What you do after your injury is critical – here’s what you should do to ensure you get the workers’ compensation claim you’re legally entitled to.

1. Immediately report your injury

Time is of the essence after a workplace injury. In Rhode Island, workers must report any incidents resulting in injury on the job to their employer as soon as possible. Make sure to also file a written report in order to have evidence of the report. Prompt injury reporting – ideally in writing – ensures that the employer will start the paperwork process in a timely manner.

Even if you don’t think your injury is severe, it’s crucial to not wait. Many injuries take hours, or even days, to fully manifest, and the longer you wait, the more likely the insurance company will claim your injury happened after the incident. A small back strain that turns into debilitating pain down the line may end up not being covered if you don’t report promptly. 

2. Seek medical care

Your health should always be the number one priority. Seeking immediate medical care not only ensures your physical well-being, but also provides documentation of your injuries for your claim. Make sure to document and keep receipts for everything, from treatments and appointments to diagnosis and prescriptions. 

As a top Providence workers compensation lawyer, our firm will help you gather and organize evidence such as medical documentation to build the strongest workers’ compensation case possible. 

3. Filing for workers’ compensation benefits

In Rhode Island, the employer must file for workers’ compensation after the employee submits a claim. Under Rhode Island law, injured workers may receive benefits covering:

• Weekly wage replacement
• Medical treatment
• Vocational rehabilitation if the worker is unable to return to their previous job

How A Providence Workers Compensation Lawyer Can Help

While workers’ compensation is supposed to provide a straightforward way for injured workers to have their medical bills and lost wages covered, dealing with insurance companies can be tricky. Insurance companies are always looking to protect their bottom line, and will do anything to deny or underpay workplace injury claims. An experienced Providence workers compensation lawyer will help you navigate the process and ensure you get the benefits you are legally entitled to. 

As a workers compensation attorney Providence residents trust, we’ve helped thousands of Rhode Island workers navigate workers’ compensation claims and get the compensation they deserve. Providence workers compensation lawyer David Tapalian and his team will help you evaluate your case to determine the full extent of the compensation you are due, gather evidence to support your claim, deal with insurance companies, and represent you in court if insurance companies refuse to pay what you’re owed – though it rarely comes down to that.

Call A Providence Workers Compensation Lawyer Today

If you were injured on the job, a Providence workers compensation lawyer can help you get the benefits you need to get back on your feet. Call Tapalian Law for a consultation today. 

FAQs

What should I do after a workplace injury?

Immediately report the injury to your employer and seek medical treatment.

Why shouldn’t I talk to insurance companies myself?

You should never speak to insurance companies because they may use whatever you say against you to reduce or deny your claim; instead, a workers’ comp attorney will negotiate on your behalf and project your interests.

Who files a workers’ comp claim after an injury?

In Rhode Island, you must notify your employer of the injury, after which the employer files the first official “report of injury” and the insurer begins the claims process.

Rhode Island Workplace Injury Attorneys Tell You What To Do After A Workplace Accident

If you are injured while on the job or in the workplace, you should take certain steps to protect your workers’ compensation claim. Here’s advice from a workplace injury lawyer RI trusts.

1. Seek immediate medical attention

Your health and safety is the number one priority. Even if you feel like the injury is minor, you should still be examined by a medical professional, as certain injuries do not present immediate symptoms. Moreover, seeking immediate medical attention also helps document your injuries – otherwise, the insurance company may claim your injuries happened after the fact.

2. Report to your employer

Time is of the essence – workplace injuries must be promptly reported to your employer, who is supposed to file a workers’ compensation claim with the statute of limitations in Rhode Island for workers’ comp claims. Let your supervisor or human resources department know about your injuries as soon as possible.

3. Make sure your employer filed the claim

The statute of limitations in Rhode Island for filing a workers’ comp claim is ten days, meaning that if your employer fails to report an accident within that time frame, your benefits may be jeopardized. When informing your employee about your injuries, make sure they are documenting your report in writing. If you remain unsure, a workers compensation attorney can help you figure out if your employer took the appropriate steps. 

4. Thoroughly document the incident

Documenting the incident as well as possible is essential to ensure your employee rights, and also to help your workers compensation attorney if further legal action is needed. Rhode Island Workplace Injury attorneys often rely on such evidence when building a case. This includes:

• Photographs of your injuries 
• Photographs of the accident scene
• Contact information of any witnesses at the scene
• Documentation of whether or not the incident was due to an ongoing safety issue
• Any video or audio recordings or pictures of the incident from other witnesses or security camera

5. Do not post about the incident

Discussing your accident on social media can damage your claim. Opposing parties and insurers will keep an eye out for any social media posts that potentially could contradict your claim in order to deny or reduce benefits. 

6. Work with experienced Rhode Island Workplace Injury attorneys

Trying to navigate the complexities of a workplace injury claim while recovering from your injuries can end up costing you a significant amount of money. An experienced Rhode Island workplace injury attorney, Tapalian Law will hold the insurance companies accountable and ensure you get the benefits you deserve so you can recover from your injuries. 

Work With One Of The Top Rhode Island Workplace Injury Attorneys Today

David Tapalian is one of the most experienced Rhode Island workplace attorneys around. If you were injured in a workplace accident, contact Tapalian Law for a consultation today.

FAQs

What constitutes a workplace injury?

A workplace injury is an unforeseen accident ending in injury that happened while an employee was carrying out workplace duties on the employer’s premises. 

Does Rhode Island require employers to carry workers’ compensation?

Yes, Rhode Island employers are required to have a certain amount of workers’ compensation insurance. 

What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

You should contact a workplace injury attorney, who will evaluate your case and take the necessary steps.

• The arbitrary denial of your claim
• Failure to pay workers’ compensation benefits without reason
• Paying you less disability compensation than what you’re legally entitled to
• Refusal to cover necessary health care visits or medical bills
• Refusal to accept responsibility for your workplace injuries

What Are Some Common Workplace Injuries That Workers’ Compensation Covers?

Every employer in Rhode Island (with extremely limited exceptions) is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. This means that the majority of work-related illnesses and injuries are covered under Rhode Island workers’ compensation. The most common workplace injuries that are covered include:

• Heavy lifting injuries – lifting large objects as part of your 
• Construction accidents – construction sites are a major source of qualifying injuries due to machinery accidents, falling objects, and other safety hazards 
• Slip and fall injuries – Fall hazards such as exposed liquids can result in premises liability for the employer, but you have to go through workers’ comp rather than a personal injury lawsuit
• Repetitive stress injuries – muscles and tendons can be worn down by physical labor over time
• Hand injuries – You may be unable to work if you injure your hands as most jobs require the use of hands in some capacity

If you’re injured outside the workplace or not actively working then workers’ compensation typically won’t apply. Workers’ compensation also doesn’t apply if:

• You were behaving negligently
• Intoxicated
• Or intentionally trying to hurt yourself

What Are Some Things David Tapalian Can Do For Your Claim?

• Evaluate your claim and calculate the appropriate amount you are entitled to for lost wages. Insurance companies may try to lowball you, and an experienced Rhode Island workers comp attorney will ensure all medical expenses are covered 
• If the insurers delay or deny benefits, our firm will file a petition with the RI Workers’ Compensation Court
• We will guide you through choosing doctors and help you prepare for Independent Medical Exams (IMEs)
• We will help negotiate settlements with the insurers, including compensation for disfigurement or scarring

Remember- Rhode Island has a two-year statute of limitations for filing workers’ compensation claims. We will help you file the claim and navigate the system so you can focus on recovering. Workers’ compensation claims can get very complex fast, and sometimes insurers may not offer the full amount you are legally entitled to or deny a legitimate claim. Our firm will give you the best chance of getting an optimal outcome.

Tapalian Law also works on a contingency fee basis – meaning that you don’t pay us unless you get the settlement you deserve. 

Consult With An Experienced Rhode Island Workers Compensation Attorney Today

If you were injured on the job, having an experienced Rhode Island Workers Compensation attorney on your side will optimize your chances of getting the settlement you deserve. David Tapalian has helped hundreds of injured workers navigate the insurance system and deal with employers. Contact Tapalian Law for a free initial consultation and have your claim evaluated today.

With offices in Rhode Island, Tapalian Law specializes in workers’ compensation cases, ensuring clients receive fair treatment from employers and insurers. In this blog, we’ll explore how David Tapalian can guide you through the process, from filing your claim to winning the compensation you’re entitled to.

Why Hire a Providence Workers Compensation Lawyer?

Rhode Island operates under a no-fault workers’ compensation system, meaning you can receive benefits for job-related injuries or illnesses regardless of who was at fault—as long as your employer carries the required insurance (mandatory for most businesses with one or more employees). Benefits typically cover medical expenses, ongoing care, wage replacement, and disability payments. However, claims can be denied, undervalued, or complicated by disputes over injury severity or pre-existing conditions.

Without legal help, you risk accepting lowball settlements or facing employer retaliation, such as reduced hours or termination. David Tapalian emphasizes: “Many injured workers underestimate the value of their claims. As your Providence workers compensation lawyer, I’ll ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve, handling the complexities so you can focus on recovery.”

Hiring a lawyer reduces stress, increases your chances of a successful outcome, and often results in higher compensation—especially in complex cases. Best of all, firms like Tapalian Law work on a contingency basis, meaning no fees unless you win.

Key Ways a Lawyer Helps You Win Your Benefits

A skilled Providence workers compensation lawyer provides comprehensive support throughout your claim. Here are the essentials the team at Tapalian Law assist clients:

1. Guiding You Through the Filing Process

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Rhode Island has strict deadlines—typically within two years of the injury or discovery of an occupational illness. A lawyer ensures your paperwork is accurate and submitted on time, avoiding common pitfalls that lead to denials. David Tapalian reviews your case to confirm eligibility and helps classify your injury (e.g., temporary vs. permanent disability) for maximum benefits.

2. Gathering Evidence to Build a Strong Case

Evidence is crucial to proving your injury is work-related and assessing its impact. Your lawyer will collect medical records, witness statements, accident reports, and expert opinions to strengthen your claim. In appeals, this documentation makes your case compelling. Tapalian Law excels at uncovering details that insurers might overlook, ensuring a thorough presentation.

3. Negotiating with Insurers and Employers

Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, offering settlements that don’t cover long-term needs. David Tapalian will negotiate aggressively on your behalf, calculating the true value of your claim—including lost wages, medical costs, and future care. This expertise helps avoid lowball offers and secures fair lump-sum or structured settlements.

4. Handling Appeals and Disputes

If your claim is denied or disputed (e.g., over disability levels or pre-existing conditions), a lawyer represents you in hearings before the Rhode Island Workers’ Compensation Court. David Tapalian has a proven track record in appeals, presenting evidence and arguing your case to overturn unfavorable decisions.

5. Protecting Against Retaliation and Exploring Third-Party Claims

Employers may retaliate against claimants, violating Rhode Island law. Your lawyer safeguards your rights and can pursue additional remedies if needed. Additionally, if a third party (like a negligent contractor) contributed to your injury, David Tapalian can help file a separate personal injury lawsuit for extra compensation beyond workers’ comp benefits.

How Tapalian Law Can Support Your Claim

Dealing with a workplace injury is tough enough without battling the legal system alone. David Tapalian and the experienced team at Tapalian Law are committed to fighting for Providence workers, drawing on years of handling Rhode Island cases to deliver results. We’ll manage every aspect of your claim, from initial consultation to resolution, ensuring you receive the medical care, wage replacement, and disability benefits you need.If you’ve suffered a job-related injury in Providence or anywhere in Rhode Island, contact Tapalian Law today for a free consultation. Fill our contact form or call to speak directly with David Tapalian. With the right Providence workers compensation lawyer on your side, you can focus on healing while we work to win the benefits you deserve.

Getting Workers Fair Treatment

Insurance companies only value one thing: Their bottom line. To protect their personal interests, insurers are not above underpaying or flat-out denying legitimate workers’ compensation claims whenever they can. Some ways adjusters try to cheat workers include:

• Disputing the work-related nature of your condition
• Downplaying the severity of your injuries
• Claiming you’re able to go back to work earlier than medically advisable

David Tapalian, an experienced Workers Comp attorney protects your interests and fights back on your behalf against such bad-faith tactics. Our experienced legal team at Tapalian law will use their extensive understanding of Massachusetts and Rhode Island labor laws and gather evidence on your behalf to establish valid claims. We will collect and present evidence of your workplace injuries, the causes, income losses, medical treatment needs, and more, as well as deal with adjusters and handle all the paperwork so that you can focus on your recovery.

When Do I Need A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?

The point of Massachusetts and Rhode Island’s workers compensation system is to expedite relief to workers who were injured on the job. However, it doesn’t always work out that way. Here’s when you should have a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer advocating on your behalf:

1. The insurance company denies your claim

Insurance providers will do anything to reduce or deny legitimate claims to protect their bottom line. It’s an uphill battle trying to establish the legitimacy of your illness or injury when the employer’s insurer denies your worker’s comp claim – especially when you’re recovering from an injury. Tapalian Law is highly skilled in appealing a Rhode Island workers’ compensation decision when you are denied, and will help you prove your claim.

2. There are severe or permanent injuries

Devastating injury claims are frequently undervalued by insurers. We will help you calculate and pursue the full lifetime of ongoing medical costs, lost earnings, and disability benefits. 

3. Your claim is disputed by your employer

Complex dispute scenarios arise when employers try to claim your injury didn’t happen at work. As one of the best Workers Comp lawyers in Massachusetts, we are skilled in workers’ comp litigation. 

4. They try to lowball you

Insurance companies may try to undervalue your claim by quickly extending settlement offers, which may seem tempting when you have bills to pay. Unfortunately, they take advantage of injured workers’ desperation because such lump sums are rarely enough for long-term losses and ongoing medical bills. 

5. The claim is complicated

When cases involve third-party liabilities, pre-existing conditions, or disputes over medical treatment, they will require extensive legal expertise.

6. You have to appear at a hearing

Trying to represent yourself in formal appeals hearings or civil court proceedings drastically reduces your likelihood of a favourable outcome. Our team will represent you and protect your rights.

Work With An Experienced Rhode Island Workers’ Comp Lawyer 

Tapalian Law has helped thousands of injured workers get the compensation they deserve. Contact Tapalian Law today to consult with one of the best Workers Comp lawyers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

A Rhode Island Workers Compensation Attorney Explains The Process

Workers’ compensation covers the majority of full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees in Rhode Island. The exceptions are listed below:

• Domestic workers
• Independent contractors
• Casual employees
• Agricultural workers
• Volunteers
• Certain maritime workers

To learn more about who is eligible, you can read through materials provided by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training. 

A wide range of work-related illnesses and injuries are covered by workers’ compensation, including the following:

• Accidents that happen on the job, such as machinery malfunctions, injuries from falls, trips, and slips, and other workplace incidents. 
• Diseases related to the workplace, including illnesses caused by exposure to hazardous conditions or substances. An example would include a worker getting ill from working in a factory that exposes the worker to chemicals, asbestos, or loud noises.
• Mental health conditions caused by work-related trauma or stress.
• Conditions known as “repetitive stress injuries” that develop over time due to performing repetitive tasks or motions. An example would be tendonitis caused by having to pull a heavy lever many times every single day on the job. 

Reporting Your Workplace Injury and The Claims Process

To ensure you get the workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to, you must report the work-related illness or injury in a timely manner. If you are injured on the job, you must notify your employer within 30 days of the incident or the date you become aware of any illness or injury. You must provide the proper documentation, including:

• Witness statements
• Medical records
• Photographs of the accident or injury scene
• Medical records

You file your workers’ compensation claim with your employer’s insurance carrier, who should provide you with the requisite instructions and forms. Normally there will be an Employee’s Claim for Compensation form and supporting documentation required, such as wage information and medical records. Generally you have two years from the date of injury or illness to file your claim. Working with a Workers Comp Lawyer Rhode Island trusts will help you expedite this process and ensure you get the benefits owed.

Contact Us Today

Although workers’ compensation is supposed to be a relatively straightforward process to compensation for workplace-related injuries and illnesses, insurance companies are always looking out for their bottom line. As a workers comp lawyer Rhode Island employees often turn to when they are denied, David Tapalian has helped many employees battle insurance companies to get the benefits they are owed. Working with an experienced Rhode Island Workers Compensation attorney is the best way to guarantee you are compensated optimally for your workplace injuries. Call Tapalian Law to consult with a Workers Comp Lawyer RI residents trust today.

The Best Workers Comp Lawyers In Massachusetts Explain Why Things Are Complicated

The process of applying for workers’ compensation is complicated. There’s a mountain of forms and paperwork – and if you make even a single tiny mistake, you may have to start all over again. If you don’t have the extensive evidence necessary to prove your injury and expenses, you will likely be denied. A RI workers comp attorney will ensure every part of your application is filed out correctly and help you collect the necessary evidence to prove your eligibility. When all your Is are dotted and Ts are crossed, you run a much lower risk of being denied the compensation you and your family so desperately need to get on with your lives and recover from the accident.

An attorney will also help you document expenses, such as ongoing medical bills, and get an accurate calculation of your average income. Depending on the nature of the incident, workers’ comp may cover time lost or how much the injury may impact future earnings. Having the most accurate calculation of your past and potential income will help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. The type of benefits which are best for your specific case, and your eligibility for these benefits, also depend on your injuries. An experienced workers comp lawyer RI trusts will evaluate your situation and determine the workers’ compensation awards best suited to your case, maximizing your compensation and the likelihood you will receive it.

To Recap: How a Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help You

• They will file your claim, thus avoiding any risk of the claim being delayed or denied due to minute issues with paperwork. (You wouldn’t believe how many claims are affected because of a simple paperwork slip-up!)
• They will represent you during the DIA hearing, which can be intimidating to civilians not in the legal field
• They will help you pinpoint any potential injury lawsuits

Contact Us Today

Having an experienced workers comp lawyer RI residents trust on your side is essential to making sure your case runs smoothly and that you get the compensation you deserve. Call Tapalian Law to schedule a consultation with some of the best workers comp lawyers in Massachusetts today!

Why You May NEED One Of The Best Workers Comp Lawyers In Massachusetts

Getting injured on the job is stressful enough on its own. An experienced Massachusetts workers’ compensation attorney will help you navigate the process of securing your workers’ compensation benefits and help you understand exactly what you need to do. When you work with Tapalian Law, we will help you evaluate the quality of your claim and clearly outline what steps you should take next. This takes the pressure off having to handle confusing paperwork and tight-fisted insurance companies so you can focus on what’s important – your health. 

Remember: We only get paid if you get paid. If your insurance company doesn’t provide a benefit they’re supposed to provide and we get them to settle, that’s essentially free money for you. Our payment comes out of the money that we get for you – money that you wouldn’t have gotten otherwise on your own. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers on retainer to protect their bottom line, so having an experienced workers compensation lawyer on your side is the least you can do to assure you get the best possible outcome.

Proven Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

Massachusetts workers in particular have great need for a proven workers’ compensation attorney. While other states have passed workers’ compensation laws to reduce benefits or make it more difficult for people with certain illnesses and injuries to qualify, Massachusetts has actually made access to benefits better. The average premium cost to an employer for workers’ compensation insurance has actually declined over the years – contrary to the myths from big business lobbyists claiming that company costs are out-of-control. The majority of employees and employers in the state of Massachusetts have workers’ compensation insurance. Workers deserve their benefits. 

Some successful workers’ compensation claims our firm has obtained for clients are listed below:

• Elevator or escalator accidents
• Auto accidents
• Illness due to job stress
• Machine injuries
• Lifting injuries
• Burn accidents
• Workplace violence
• Scaffolding falls
• Construction accidents
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Crane accidents
• Elevator or escalator accidents
• Exposure to dangerous chemicals or toxic materials
• Farming accidents
• Heavy machinery accidents
• Fatality benefits

Contact Us Today

Just because workers are covered for work-related illnesses, accidents, and injuries doesn’t necessarily mean securing the compensation they’re rightfully owed will be an easy road. That’s why it’s essential to have a proven workers compensation attorney fighting for you. Call Taplian Law to consult with one of the best workers comp lawyers in Massachusetts today.

A Rhode Island Workers Compensation Attorney Explains Workers Comp

Workers compensation (workers’ comp) refers to a type of insurance which offers benefits to employees if they become ill or injured due to their job. This system is designed to expedite payment for workers who suffered workplace-induced injuries or illness so they can pay their medical bills if they must take time off work. Workers’ comp can pay for these associated medical bills or even ongoing care, as well as replace wages for missed work. This is a form of no-fault insurance, which means that when you accept workers comp, you also forfeit your right to sue their employer.

In Rhode Island, most businesses with one or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Exceptions include independent contractors, who are not technically employees and thus cannot collect workers’ compensation benefits. 

How A Rhode Island Workers Compensation Lawyer Can Help

If you are injured or become ill due to your job, you need to report it to your employer. YOur employer is supposed to let the insurance company know and begin the claims process. However, just because they filed, it doesn’t mean you’ll get what you’re owed. Insurance companies are always looking out for their bottom line, and may attempt to lowball you into a much smaller settlement than you are entitled to, or deny your benefits outright without just cause. 

A workers comp lawyer will gather evidence and necessary documents to prove your appeals, making your case seem as strong as possible to get you the settlement you deserve. Although you don’t technically need a lawyer to file, having an experienced workers comp lawyer on your side will help guide you through the process and optimize your chances of getting a fair settlement. 

Some situations when it will be helpful to have an attorney fighting for you include:

• Complex cases – If your case involves complexities, such as disputes over the determination of your disability level or any pre-existing conditions, a lawyer can help.
• Negotiations and settlements – If you have to negotiate, having a lawyer on your side is essential
• Filing for permanent disability – This can be more complicated than temporary disability, as it is much more expensive. A lawyer can help prove your case.
• Employer retaliation – If an employer tries to punish you (cutting hours, termination, etc.) for filing workers compensation, a lawyer can help protect your rights
• Third-party lawsuits – If your injury was the result of another party while you were on the job, an attorney can help you navigate a personal injury lawsuit.

Contact Us Today

Having an experienced Rhode Island Workers Compensation attorney on your side – particularly for more complex workers comp cases – will significantly raise your chances of getting the settlement you deserve for your injuries. Call Tapalian Law to consult with a top Rhode Island Workers Compensation lawyer today!

• Partial wage replacement
• Appropriate medical care
• Vocational rehabilitation 

Workers’ compensation mandates employers to care for their injured workers as a business cost, rather than forcing injured workers to go on public assistance and putting the burden of care on taxpayers. Virtually all employers are required to have insurance or self-insurance covering work related injuries.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

Workers’ compensation covers any injury that is incurred on the job due to preventable means. Exceptions include injuries caused intentionally by the worker in question, or if the worker was intoxicated while injured. The main types of covered injuries are listed below, though the list is not exhaustive:

• Injuries that happen over a period of time due to accumulated stresses of the job 
• Injuries caused by an acute incident such as falling or lifting
• When a specific injury aggravated pre-existing conditions
• When constant or repetitive stresses of the job aggravates pre-existing conditions
• “Flow-from” injuries – this means any medical condition or injury resulting from a work-related injury. For example, if a worker injures one arm on the job and as a result begins to overuse the other arm, any injuries incurred due to the overuse of their other arm is a “flow-from” injury (even if they recover from the original injury)

Rhode Island Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Under Rhode Island law, injured workers are entitled to the following benefits:

• Roughly 75% of weekly compensation take home pay. This is calculated based on the average of earnings from all jobs the injured workers had before the injury
• Total disability benefits continue without any time limitation, and injured workers who return to light duty work will continue to be compensated for any loss of income from not being able to work in their previous capacity.
• The injured worker may choose their own doctor, and workers’ compensation covers all medical expenses
• Compensation is paid for any disfigurement or scare as the result of the injury or for any permanent loss of use of a body part
• For injured workers who are permanently disabled, the insurance company pays the cost of vocational rehabilitation and retraining 
• Injured workers – with certain exceptions – have the right to return to their job

Contact Us Today

If you were recently injured while on the job, you may need an experienced Rhode Island workers’ compensation attorney to help you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation law in order to get the full benefits you may be entitled to. Call Tapalian Law to consult with a top Rhode Island workers’ compensation lawyer today.

What Is Workers’ Comp?

The Rhode Island Workers’ Compensation System is a type of no fault insurance specifically meant to offer assistance to employees who were injured at work and compensate them for lost wages and/or medical expenses related to the workplace injury. The majority of employers who have one or more workers are required by Rhode Island law to purchase appropriate workers’ compensation insurance that covers employee accidents in the workplace. There are exemptions, including but not limited to partners, sole proprietors, and certain agricultural and domestic service employees. Municipal employees are covered only if the municipality they work for has selected to be covered. 

Covered employees who are injured while doing their job on the work site or who contract an illness from their working conditions may be able to collect benefits under workers’ compensation. 

What Workers’ Compensation Insurance Covers In Rhode Island

Workers’ compensation insurance coverage in Rhode Island officially begins on the fourth day from the date that you were injured. Below are areas that are covered by this form of insurance:

• Medical bills due to the injury: Treatment for your work-related injuries may be covered by workers’ comp
• Ongoing care: If you require additional treatment for your injury(s), such as physical therapy or surgery, it is covered.
• Rehabilitation services: Any rehabilitation services necessary to help you return to work are covered under workers’ comp. This includes but is not limited to physical, psychological, and vocational rehabilitation.
• Total disability: If your injuries render you unable to return to any kind of employment than you may be eligible to collect total disability
• Partial disability: If you are unable to return to work but are not completely disable, you may be eligible to collect partial disability
• Death benefits: In cases of a workers’ death, death benefits can be paid to surviving dependents or spouses

How To Report A Workplace Injury

If you are injured on the job, then you should seek immediate medical care. Your illness or injury is also required to be reported to the employer’s workers’ compensation representative or HR department. The employer is required to report the injury to their workers’ compensation carrier within ten days of the illness or injury. Then, the responsibility falls on the insurance company for reporting the injury and determining if the illness or injury is covered under their policy. If the injury is fatal, employers must report it within 48 hours of the injury happening. If they report it late or do not report it at all, employers face a $250 fine.

Contact Us Today

If you were injured in a workplace injury, having an experienced workers’ comp lawyer on your side to help you navigate the system will optimize your chances of being compensated appropriately. Call Tapalian Law to consult with an experienced Rhode Island workers’ comp attorney today.

Distracted Walking

Cell phones have made it easy for us to stay in contact with work, friends, and family 24/7 but they are also a major cause of slip and fall accidents. Falls are frequently the consequence of inattention or a distraction, like looking down to use a cell phone. This is known as distracted walking. Like distracted driving, distracted walking can cause injury, both minor and severe. Looking down at a cell phone while walking can cause a crash into another person, a trip down a flight of stairs, a fall off a sidewalk, or worse. Distracted walking can cause a person to unknowingly walk into traffic or take a serious fall, resulting in severe injuries or a fatality. If you must use a cell phone while walking, stop in a safe spot out of the way of other pedestrians and vehicles to make your call or send your text to avoid an injury due to distracted walking.

Workplace Slip & Falls

When we think of workplace injuries, typically we think of a warehouse environment involving forklifts and heavy lifting. And trip and fall accidents do occur in these types of work settings. Fall protection leads OSHA’s Top 10 list of cited workplace violations for the second year in a row. But falls are also a very common source of injury in an office setting. You may wonder- how can someone get hurt sitting at a desk in an air-conditioned office? It’s more common than you think. Some tips for reducing office related slip and fall accidents are:

• Remove clutter- boxes and files piled up can create a tripping hazard, according to OSHA. Store away boxes and files in a desk, a closet, or another appropriate spot out of walkways.
• Secure electrical cords- not only do stretching cords across walkways or under rugs prevent a tripping hazard, they also create an electrical hazard. Ensure electric cords are properly secured and covered to prevent falls.
• Use a ladder- if you need to reach something up high on a shelf, use a properly secured ladder instead of a chair. It may seem like common sense, but many accidents happen in the workplace by workers climbing on rolling chairs.
• Keep corners clear- there are frequently blind spots around hallways or cubicle corners. Keep these areas clear or use mirrors to avoid collisions.
• Use proper flooring- Tiles can be slippery. Using carpets, especially at entryways where people may enter with wet shoes, can reduce the risk of a slip and fall. About 40% of slip and fall accidents at retail locations take place in the main entryway. Flooring should be regularly inspected for any cracks or rolled up edges to reduce falls.

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident at work, seek out the advice of a Rhode Island workers compensation lawyer at Tapalian Law. After motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls are the second major cause of workplace incidents. Attorney David Tapalian has experience helping those injured in workplace accidents including slip and falls in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Our injury law firm can establish whether you have a valid slip and fall claim or workers compensation claim and advise you how to proceed.

Have You Been Hurt in a Slip & Fall Accident?

If you have been hurt in a slip and fall accident, it is important to take immediate action in order to validate your personal injury claim. Whether you have been injured at the workplace, at the grocery store, or on someone else’s property, the following tips are important to remember.

• Report your injury right away to the property owner or management and complete an incident report.
• Take photos of the incident location right after the accident, before any clean up or repairs are made.
• Seek medical attention for your injuries.
• Contact a Rhode Island slip and fall personal injury lawyer like Tapalian Law to discuss the details of your injury claim and establish whether or not you have a valid slip and fall claim or workers compensation case.

Even if you seem fine after a fall, you will still want to report the injury, take pictures, and seek medical attention. Seemingly minor injuries can quickly turn into major ones and internal medical problems, such as internal bleeding, can be easily overlooked by the untrained eye.

Contact a Slip & Fall Lawyer in the Providence Area

If you have been injured in a slip, trip, or fall accident, you want an experienced slip and fall attorney like David Tapalian on your side. A skilled injury lawyer who specializes in slip and fall cases will determine the answers to some important questions in establishing a valid injury claim. Did the property owner have a “duty of care” to protect those coming upon the property? Did the owner breach this “duty of care”? If so, did the breach of duty cause harm or injury? Did the injury cause economic damages to the injured such as medical bills or lost wages? To determine if you are eligible to seek compensation for your Rhode Island slip and fall case, contact the injury law firm of Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000 or reach out to us online today. We offer a free consultation and are available to discuss your legal rights with you today.

Common Injuries from Slip & Fall Accidents

Injuries from a slip and fall can range from very minor, a bump or bruise, but can also be quite serious or fatal. In fact, half of all accidental deaths in the home are caused by a fall according to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI). Injuries are habitually more severe in the elderly. Fractures are a very common fall injury and can be grave. Other fall related injuries are sprains, torn ligaments, head, back, neck, and shoulder injuries, brain injury, concussions, and spinal cord injuries. Falls make up 87% of fractures seen among those over the age of 65 and are the second leading cause of spinal cord and brain injury. Check out a previous Tapalian Law injury blog for potential slip and fall hazards and how to prevent them.

Elements of a Rhode Island Slip & Fall Case

In a potential slip and fall injury lawsuit, there are some important questions your RI slip and fall attorney will look to answer.

Duty– Did the owner of the property where you fell have a “duty of care” to protect those coming onto the property? A property owner, whether residential or commercial, must use a degree of caution and concern that a prudent and rational person would use under similar circumstances. For example, if you are entering into a grocery store the day after a snow storm, one would expect the property owner to keep the walkways maintained and free of snow and ice for customers.

Breach of Duty– Did the owner breach this duty of care? In the example of the grocery store, did the owner breach the duty of care by failing to remove snow and ice leaving the walkways slippery for customers to potentially slip?

Causation– Did this breach cause injury or harm? Did you, the customer, slip and fall on a patch of ice on the walkway causing a broken arm?

Damages– These can be economic damages (ie. hospital bills, physical therapy costs, lost wages) or non-economic damages (ie. Pain and suffering, reduced quality of life). Did you incur damages for the broken arm such as medical bills, lost time away from work, physical therapy costs, etc.?

Slip & Fall Law in Rhode Island

Rhode Island personal injury cases follow the Comparative Negligence Law. Simply put, this means that if a plaintiff (the injured person) is proven to be hurt and awarded compensation, they may still be found to be partially at fault and awarded a percentage of the damages. In the case of the slip and fall on an icy grocery store walkway, if the grocery store provided video surveillance showing that you were horse playing on the icy walkway for five minutes prior to slipping and falling resulting in a broken arm, the grocery store may claim that you are 30% responsible for the accident. If this is found to be the case, the store may only be on the line for 70% of the damages, with you being responsible for the remaining 30%. So, if your incurred damages amount to $10,000, the grocery store may only be obligated to pay 70% of them, amounting to $7,000. You would be responsible for the remaining $3,000.

Rhode Island General Laws section 9-20-4 What to Do After a RI Slip & Fall Accident

• Report your injury to the property owner and complete an incident report.
• Take photos of the incident location right after the accident, prior to any clean up or repairs being made.
• Seek medical attention for your injuries.
• Contact a Rhode Island slip and fall personal injury lawyer, like Tapalian Law.

Contact a Rhode Island Slip & Fall Injury Lawyer After Your Accident

If you have been hurt in a slip and fall accident, whether at a grocery store, restaurant, a friend’s home, or the workplace, do not hesitate to seek the legal advice of a skilled RI slip and fall attorney like David Tapalian. Big companies have experienced lawyers on their side, so should you. A practiced personal injury attorney may seek video surveillance, witness statements, photos, and prior incident reports deemed applicable to your injury case. Slip and fall accidents can get very expensive with emergency room treatment, surgery, physical therapy, and time lost from work. If your fall occurred due to the lack of reasonable care or maintenance by another person or business owner, you should not be left paying for the high costs. Seek the experience of slip and fall lawyer David Tapalian for a free no-obligations consultation for your injuries. Contact Tapalian Law today at 401-552-5000, or reach us online.