If you have sustained an injury in the workplace, it is vitally important that you initiate a formal workers' compensation claim as soon as possible. Although the specific procedure required in your state will vary according to the laws that apply in your area, it is common to begin the process by notifying your supervisor about the injury or illness and completing any in-house documentation that is required, such as an accident report. Although many laws exist that prevent your employer from interfering in the workers' compensation claim process, ample evidence exists that many workers are dissuaded from initiating the claims process. In order to ensure that your rights will be protected, it could be beneficial to have an expert on your side. Contact your union or a local workers' rights organization for more information and assistance, or consider contracting the services of a qualified workers' compensation attorney to help oversee the claims process.