Workplace injuries happen fast and the paperwork starts even faster. Within 24 hours of an incident, insurers, HR departments and occupational health professionals are all documenting the event from their perspective — and most of what they write will later be used to argue your claim down, not up.

The most important first step is medical. Seek immediate medical attention even for injuries that seem minor. Adrenaline masks symptoms, and gaps in treatment become evidence that an injury was not serious. Tell every doctor, every nurse, every intake clerk exactly what happened and how you feel. Their notes become the official record.

Next, preserve evidence. Photograph the scene, your injury, any equipment involved and any visible hazards. Collect contact information from every witness. Keep your damaged clothing or safety equipment — do not let anyone dispose of it.

Report the incident in writing to your employer. Verbal reports disappear. Written reports do not. Keep a copy of everything you sign.

Finally, talk to a lawyer before you talk to the insurance company. Early conversations with claims adjusters can permanently limit what you can recover. Free consultations exist for a reason — use one.