Can I Be Fired For A Manufacturing Work Related Injury?

Can I Be Fired For A Manufacturing Work-Related Injury?

There can be significant consequences if you suffer an injury at work, as a workers’ compensation lawyer in Brooksfield, WI can explain. You have to deal with reduced income and it can take a long time to recover. There are protections in place for workers who do suffer an on the job injury or illness. If you are unable to return to work because of an injury, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. Sometimes the process for doing so is not simple, and your employer may actually make it hard to complete. Many workers fear that their employer will retaliate if they apply for workers’ compensation, especially in the manufacturing industry. Here are some of the things you should know about your rights after suffering a work-related injury, as a workers’ compensation lawyer in Brookfield, WI can explain, like one from Hickey & Turim, SC. 

What are my rights as an employee? 

Whether you can be fired for a work-related injury depends on the state that you live in. While there are many states that make it illegal to fire an employee simply for suffering a workplace injury, some states have “at-will” employment, which means the employer has the discretion to terminate an employer for any reason or no reason at all. There are exceptions however. Retaliation against a worker for filing a workers’ compensation claim is illegal, so you should speak to a lawyer if your employer has retaliated against you. 

There are many factors that determine the strength of your case. If you have filed a claim after suffering work-related injury, contact a lawyer for further assistance. 

What injuries are not covered? 

While certain injuries are covered under workers’ compensation laws, some are not. Common injuries that manufacturing workers sustain include injuries from getting caught in between machines, falling objects, and ladder accidents. 

You should be aware of what kinds of injuries cannot be covered by workers’ compensation benefits. Injuries that you suffered while you were acting irresponsibly are not eligible to include your claim.  For example, if a worker is engaging in behavior that violates company policy, the claim will not be approved. If you were not at your job site or suffered an injury during your lunch break, your injury will not be eligible. 

What should my next steps be? 

If you have been terminated, demoted or received any kind of disciplinary action against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim, talk to a lawyer as soon as possible to learn your rights. A lawyer will be able to help you if you have filed a workers’ compensation claim that was denied. They will review your situation and see what actions you should take. 

Contact a Lawyer For Legal Advice

Navigating the workers’ compensation process is challenging, especially if you are a manufacturing worker who fears retaliation from your employer. You need to act quickly if you need assistance with your claim. You can depend on a trusted workers’ compensation lawyer in Brookfield, WI to help you so you have the guidance to get through the legal process and receive the full benefits you deserve.