One issue we sometimes hear about in our line of work is an injured worker’s reluctance to file for workers’ compensation for one reason or another. However, in the vast majority of cases, the excuses they give for not wanting to file for compensation aren’t based in their best interest or even the truth. In today’s blog, we share some tips for convincing a loved one to file for compensation, or reasons why you shouldn’t be afraid to file for workers’ compensation in the wake of an accident.
Why Filing A Claim Is In Your Best Interest
There are numerous reasons why you should file for compensation and not let fears or doubts hold you back after a work injury. Here’s why filing a claim is in your best interest and the best interests of your family.
It Pays For Your Medical Bills – Any and all reasonable and necessary medical expenses will be covered by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. You don’t need to worry about huge medical bills, because as long as you were injured during the scope of your employment, your medical bills will be covered.
Offset Lost Wages – Workers’ compensation is also designed to help offset lost income you may experience as a result of your injuries. You will not get your full salary, but you will likely get roughly two-thirds of your normal paycheck in the form of lost wages benefits. If you’re unable to work because of your injuries, even if it’s only for a short period, workers’ compensation can help.
It’s Not Coming Out Of Your Boss’s Pocket – Some people are reluctant to rock the boat at work and don’t want to cost the company or their boss a lot of money. Remember, that’s why they pay their workers’ compensation premiums every year. It’s not coming out of their pocket, it’s being provided by an insurance company. You’re not bankrupting your boss or your business by filing for workers’ comp.
It’s Illegal To Retaliate – Also, it’s worth noting that even if a manager or your employer takes umbrage with your decision to file an injury claim, it is illegal for them to take retaliatory action against you for doing so. You can’t be fired, have your hours greatly reduced or face any other sanctions for pursuing your legal rights following an injury. If they do retaliate, know that you’ll have another easily winnable case on your hands.
It’s Not Just About You – Remember, your family depends on you, and if you don’t take care of your health or your finances by filing for workers’ compensation, they can suffer. Even if you’re single, you have your future to think about, and if you don’t pursue a recommended surgery or collect the compensation you’re owed, that can put you in an unenviable position down the road. Your health and your financial security are important, so pursue help that has been provided by your employment contract in the form of workers’ compensation.
We Win When You Win – Finally, we sometimes hear that people don’t want to pursue workers’ compensation because it’s too much of a hassle to hire a lawyer and do it right, or they believe hiring a lawyer can get expensive. Remember, workers’ compensation lawyers work on a contingent basis, meaning they only get paid when you get paid. The more money they get for you, the more they take home, so your interests are perfectly aligned and they can handle all the complexities of the case. Don’t let misinformation about a workers’ compensation lawyer’s role or cost prevent you from filing a claim.
If you’re convinced that filing a claim is in your best interest, reach out to the team at Hey Workers to learn more about what we can do for you. Give our team a call today at (844) 439-9675.
