Why You Should Report Your Work Injury Immediately (And What Happens If You Don’t)
If you get injured on the job in Missouri, your first instinct might be to shake it off and keep working. Maybe you think the pain will go away, or you’re worried about what your boss will say. But waiting to report your injury is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
Under Missouri workers’ compensation law, you have just 30 days to report your injury, or you could lose your right to benefits. Let’s dive into why reporting your injury right away is so important—and what happens if you wait too long.
Why Reporting Your Injury ASAP is Crucial
The moment you report your injury, it sets the wheels in motion for your workers’ compensation benefits. Here’s why acting fast is critical:
1. You Protect Your Right to Benefits
In Missouri, if you don’t report your injury within 30 days, you might lose your workers’ comp benefits—which means:
2. It Strengthens Your Claim
When you report your injury immediately:
Waiting too long could make it easier for the insurance company to deny your claim.
How to Report Your Injury in Missouri
Reporting your work injury is simple, but you have to do it the right way.
1. Tell Your Employer in Writing
Even if you first mention it verbally, follow up with a written notice to make it official.
💡 Pro Tip: If your employer refuses to take your report, send it via email or certified mail to have proof.
2. Note the Date and Time of the Report
This is crucial in case your employer tries to deny that you reported the injury on time.
3. Request a Copy of the Report
Your employer should document your injury report. Ask for a copy to keep in your records. If they refuse, write your own detailed account of what happened and send it via email for proof.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
Delaying your report can cause serious problems for your workers’ comp claim. Here’s what could go wrong:
1. Your Claim May Be Denied
Insurance companies look for reasons to deny claims. If you wait weeks to report your injury, they may say:
2. You Might Have to Pay Medical Bills Out of Pocket
If your claim is denied, you could end up paying for treatment yourself—and medical bills add up fast.
3. Your Employer Might Retaliate
Some employers pressure workers not to report injuries because it raises insurance costs. But retaliation is illegal.
Signs of retaliation include:
💡 Pro Tip: If you experience retaliation, contact a workers’ comp lawyer immediately.
What If You Miss the 30-Day Deadline?
Missed the deadline? All hope isn’t lost.
There are some exceptions where you may still qualify
💡 You should still report your injury ASAP and speak with a workers’ comp lawyer to explore your options.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait—Take Action Today
📌 If you’re hurt at work, report it immediately. Waiting could cost you your benefits, your job, and your financial security.
🚀 Need help with a workers’ comp claim? Contact a Missouri workers’ comp attorney today to protect your rights!
Post Author
Nick Adkins
Attorney at Law and Workers' Comp Expert
Nick has represented Workers’ Compensation Employees since 2013, and he practices out of the Cape Girardeau and Farmington locations. There is nothing more important to Nick than doing a good job for his clients.
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