Let’s face it. When an employee is injured at work, it hurts the company. Not only are work injuries supposed to be reported to federal authorities, which makes the company look bad, but claims on a company’s workers’ compensation coverage can cause their premiums to go up, costing them money. When an employee is unable to work because of an injury, the company may have to hire a temporary worker or lose productivity.
Regardless of the company’s losses, however, injured workers are entitled to compensation under the law, and it is illegal for an employer to pressure them to not report the injury. If you are being discouraged from reporting a work injury by a manager or supervisor, you may need the help of a lawyer. In Baton Rouge and South Louisiana, the work injury attorneys at Bianca | Matkins can be your advocate.
Just How Bad Is the Problem?
A U.S. Congressional study conducted in 2008 found that as many as 69 percent of workplace injuries and illnesses are not properly reported and therefore do not make it into federal statistics. The study found that instances of intimidation and harassment of injured workers were widespread and that workers were often pressured into returning to work too soon after suffering a serious injury to avoid having to report the injury. Fear of losing their jobs, promises of rewards for not reporting, and encouragement to “just use your health insurance” are often cited as reasons employees do not report their work-related injuries.
A Workers’ Comp Attorney Can Help
If you are being pressured to keep your work-related injury quiet, you owe it to yourself to consult with a workers’ comp attorney. Remember that your employer’s concern is saving money and avoiding the consequences of an unsafe workplace. They are not your friend in this situation. When you call our Baton Rouge law office, we will explain your rights and take steps to ensure that your rights are protected. You may have health insurance and paid sick leave, but those benefits are not designed to cover a serious work injury. Your employer is required by state law to carry workers’ comp insurance for just this purpose. To be fully compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, and possible long-term disability, you must file a workers’ comp claim.
Call our firm today to discuss your case. Our lawyers have seen cases of employer intimidation too many times before and we’re committed to defending your rights.
