Injured at Work: What Are Your 5 Essential Rights That No One Can Take Away from You?

Workplace injuries can occur in any industry. When workers are injured on the job, they have the right to seek worker’s compensation benefits. Worker’s compensation laws were put into place to protect injured workers and provide them with wage replacement and medical care coverage while they recover. There are some essential rights you hold as an injured worker, and no one can take them away from you.

Common Types of Workplace Injuries

There are many types of injuries that can occur on the job. While some industries are more dangerous than others, there is a potential for injury in every type of job, including office positions. The following are some of the most common types of injuries. Victims sometimes need to contact the Robert Pahlke Law Group for help.

• Crush injuries
• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Sprains
• Back injuries
• Repetitive motion strains
• Head injuries

5 Essential Rights You Hold as an Injured Worker

If you are injured on the job, there are certain rights that are afforded to you under the law, and no one can take these away. The worker’s compensation laws govern your rights and ensure you are treated fairly in the process.

1. As an injured worker, you have the right to file an injury claim with your employer without fear of retaliation. Your boss cannot fire or demote you because you reported the injury.
2. You have the right to pursue medical care for your injury. Although the employer may insist you are seen by the company doctor, you also have the right to see your own doctor.
3. If you are unable to work due to your injury, you have the right to receive partial wage replacement.
4. If you are unable to return to work permanently, you are entitled to receive some form of disability compensation from your employer.
5. If you disagree with any decisions made by your employer or their insurance company, you have the right to appeal.

Should You Hire a Lawyer?

Another right you hold as an injured worker is the right to hire a lawyer. Many injured workers wonder if they need a lawyer to help them. While a lawyer is not required for filing a worker’s compensation claim, it can certainly be helpful.

Having a lawyer represent you throughout the process will give you the guidance that is needed for making the best decisions. A lawyer will also work to protect your rights and negotiate with your employer and their insurance company.

Simply consulting with a lawyer will allow you to learn more about your rights and the options you have for pursuing worker’s compensation benefits.

Conclusion

There are certain rights you hold as an injured worker and no one, not even your employer, can take them away from you. Protecting your rights as an injured worker is essential for ensuring you get the worker’s compensation benefits you deserve. Make sure you are familiar with your rights, so they are not infringed upon by your employer or the insurance company.

If you are injured on the job, seek medical attention and then report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Reporting the injury in a timely manner will help you to avoid unnecessary delays that could prevent you from receiving the benefits you deserve. When in doubt, it never hurts to consult with a lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.