When the incident is fresh, the biggest risk is losing leverage—through missing records, delayed treatment, or statements that get used against you.
Do this first:
- Get medical care immediately (and follow restrictions). Crush injuries can worsen after swelling goes down.
- Report the incident in writing if your workplace allows it, and keep copies.
- Document what you can safely: photos of the area, equipment markings/guards, and any visible damage.
- Write down a timeline while it’s still clear: what you were doing, what was moving, who was nearby, and what changed right before the injury.
- Save all paperwork you receive—incident report numbers, work status forms, discharge instructions, and follow-up appointments.
Avoid: giving long, detailed recorded statements or signing anything you haven’t reviewed with counsel. In Utah, early communications can strongly influence how later disputes are framed.


