It’s not every day that you get injured in your workplace, so you might not know how to proceed if this occurs. Whether you slipped and fell, burned yourself or pulled a muscle, your injury could stop you from working temporarily or even permanently. You might be eligible for workers’ compensation.
If you’ve been injured on the job then you’ll want to act fast. There are a few things you’ll need to know so you don’t miss out on the benefits you need- because you can be denied workers’ compensation. Here’s what you should know:
Report your injury immediately
You have to report a workplace injury and you should report it as soon as possible. The more time you wait on reporting an injury the less likely you’ll be eligible for workers’ compensation. Waiting too long can make your employer suspicious about when and where you were injured.
Reporting your injury is a small step, but one that starts the ball rolling for your workers’ compensation claim. It’s a step that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Know how workers’ compensation is a no-fault system
California has a no-fault workers’ compensation system. In other words, it isn’t necessary to establish blame. An employee just has to show their injuries were work-related and not the fault of the employer.
Employers can’t retaliate against a workers’ compensation claim
In all states, it is illegal to fire, cut pay or demote an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim. workers’ shouldn’t have to worry if they won’t be returning to work the next day because they were injured onsite.
Not every workers’ compensation claim will look the same. If you’ve been injured at work then you should know how to protect your rights to workers’ compensation.