According to the West Virginia Workers Compensation Code, what is the first action to take after being injured on the job?

The first action to take after being injured on the job, according to the West Virginia Workers Compensation Code, is to seek necessary medical treatment. The health and well-being of the injured employee is the primary concern following an injury. Immediate medical attention ensures that the injury is properly assessed, treated, and documented, which is crucial not only for the individual’s recovery but also for any subsequent claims related to workers’ compensation.

While reporting the injury to a supervisor is an important step that follows seeking medical treatment, ensuring that the employee's immediate health needs are attended to comes first. This priority is rooted in the understanding that delayed medical care can exacerbate injuries and complicate recovery processes, potentially affecting the ability to return to work.

Filing a claim with the insurance company and contacting a lawyer are also significant actions that should be taken after the injury has been addressed to ensure that all legal and financial protections are in place, but they do not take precedence over the immediate need for medical care.