3 Ways Workers Compensation Lawyers Will Help You If You're Fired After A Workplace Injury
If you're injured at work, several questions may come to mind. Some of these include how you'll pay your medical bills, how long you'll be out of work, and what will happen if you're fired. While feeling anxious after a workplace injury is natural, it shouldn't prevent you from seeking the compensation and justice you deserve. The good news is that you can file a workers' compensation claim if your employer wrongly terminates you. Hiring a workers compensation lawyer will increase your chances of receiving benefits and holding your employer accountable.
This article outlines three ways workers compensation lawyers can help you if you're fired after sustaining a workplace injury.
Filing a Claim
Your employer is required to carry workers compensation insurance to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other benefits if you're injured at work. If your employer doesn't have insurance or refuses to offer you restitution, you can file a claim with the state workers compensation board. However, this process isn't easy, which is why you should hire a lawyer. A workers compensation lawyer understands the laws and procedures of filing claims and can help you get the benefits you're entitled to.
Appealing a Denied Claim
If your workers compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. This process requires you to file a notice of appeal, attend a hearing, and prove that you have the right to compensation. You'll agree that navigating through this process can be challenging, especially if you're still dealing with your injury's physical and emotional effects. Workers compensation lawyers can get this decision overturned. They'll file the necessary paperwork, represent you at the hearing, gather evidence to support your case, and help you understand the appeals process. With them by your side, you're more likely to get the benefits you need to pay for your losses.
Negotiating with Your Employer
An employer may fire an employee after a workplace injury for several reasons. They may be worried about the potential cost of the workers compensation claim, feel that you're no longer able to perform your duties, or think that you're no longer a good fit for the company. If you've been fired after a workplace injury, a workers compensation lawyer can negotiate with your employer to get you back to your position. They'll also ensure you have a safe and fair working environment and help you get accommodations if your injury prevents you from performing your duties.
No one should worry about losing their job after a workplace injury. Although workers' compensation laws vary from state to state, generally, your employer should not fire you for filing a claim. If that happens, contact workers compensation lawyers to help you get the compensation and job security you need.