In today’s workplace, you always staind to benefit by being aware of your rights and protections. This is especially true when it comes to workers’ compensation.
Unfortunately, some employers might retaliate against employees who file for workers’ comp benefits. There are some practical steps you can follow to safeguard yourself against such retaliation.
Know your rights
First and foremost, educate yourself about your rights as an employee. Understand that it is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for filing a workers’ comp claim. This protection comes directly from state and federal laws.
Report injuries promptly
If you sustain an injury at work, report it to your supervisor or HR department immediately. By documenting the incident promptly, you create a record that can support your claim for workers’ comp benefits. Delaying the report might raise suspicions and make it easier for your employer to deny your claim.
Follow company procedures
Follow your company’s procedures for reporting workplace injuries and seeking medical attention. Adhering to these protocols demonstrates that you are acting in good faith. Acknowledging established regulations also helps protect you against accusations of misconduct.
Keep detailed records
Keep thorough records of all interactions related to your injury and workers’ comp claim. This includes emails, memos, medical reports and any other documentation. These records can serve as evidence in case of retaliation or disputes.
There are an average of 4.9 million workers’ compensation claims filed each year, and all of them have protection against employer retaliation. If you file a workers’ compensation claim yourself, you can be confident that your job and your right to a settlement are secure.
