Every job, from office work to construction, comes with its own set of risks. That is why workers’ compensation exists – to protect employees when accidents happen. The law requires employers to follow workers’ comp regulations, ensuring workers’ recovery if they get hurt on the job. However, some workers worry about how filing a claim might affect their employment. To ease these concerns, here are seven things your employer cannot do when you file for workers’ comp:
- Fire you for filing: Your employer cannot terminate your employment just because you filed a claim. That is illegal retaliation.
- Pressure you to not file: The law protects your right to file a workers’ comp claim. Your employer cannot attempt to dissuade you from filing or threaten you.
- Cut your hours or pay: Reducing your work hours or salary as punishment for filing a claim is a big no-no. Cutting your hours or pay could discourage you and other employees from reporting injuries, which goes against the purpose of workers’ compensation laws.
- Deny you medical treatment: Your employer must allow you to seek medical care for your work-related injury or illness.
- Force you back to work too soon: Your employer cannot make you return to work before your doctor says you are ready. Your health comes first.
- Discriminate against you: Treating you differently from other employees because of your claim is against the law.
- Withhold information: Your employer must provide you with the necessary information and forms to file your claim.
Remember, these protections exist to ensure you can recover from your work-related injury without fear. If your employer does any of these things, it is time to speak up.
Seeking legal help: Your ally in workers’ comp claims
If you believe your employer is violating your rights, consider consulting a workers’ compensation attorney. An experienced legal professional can provide valuable guidance throughout the claims process, protect your rights and assist you in obtaining the benefits to which you are entitled. They can also stand up to employers who try to violate these rules, advocating for fair treatment.
Your health and well-being matter. Know your rights, stand your ground and focus on getting better. That is what workers’ compensation is all about.