Many professionals hurt on the job feel embarrassed. Even if what occurred was truly just an accident, they may worry that the incident reflects poorly on their professional capabilities. Some people avoid reporting incidents where they get hurt to their employers or delay filing workers’ compensation claims because they fear professional setbacks if they report what occurred.
Generally speaking, employees who sustain injuries while on the clock may have the option of requesting workers’ compensation benefits. The coverage available includes medical benefits for treatment expenses and disability benefits after lost wages.
Even workers who are confident that their employers should not blame them for their injuries may fear the possibility of losing their jobs if they file a benefits claim. The law actually forbids the retaliatory termination of employees who file workers’ compensation claims.
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Reporting an injury is a protected act
The law grants certain legal protections to employees. They have the right to engage in specific acts without their employers punishing them. Reporting an injury sustained on the job is a basic right for workers.
They also have protection from retaliation if they file a workers’ compensation claim. Even the act of requesting accommodations based on their injuries is protected under the law.
Lawful job loss during a workers’ compensation claim is possible. Performance issues or downsizing could lead to the lawful termination of a worker receiving workers’ compensation benefits. However, the claim made by the employee should not be the justification for their termination.
Recognizing when a situation may involve a violation of an employee’s rights with a skilled legal team can help workers assert themselves. Professionals fired for seeking workers’ compensation benefits may have experienced a wrongful termination and may have the right to take legal action.