Being unable to work because of an on the job injury is one of the most stressful situations a person can find themselves in. Unfortunately, after you’ve been hurt at work, many unscrupulous will take this opportunity to try and force you out of your position. Not only can this increase your already high-stress level, it can also leave you struggling to pay your expensive medical bills and scrambling to find a way to support your family.
If you’re worried about being forced to quit after a job-related injury, it’s important you examine the legality of this practice and how you can fight for your rights. Discover if you can be forced to quit your job after a work injury and learn how you and an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can prevent a forced resignation.
Workers’ Compensation and Wrongful Termination
Employers attempt to fire employees after work injuries for several reasons. Some have to do with productivity, and others with benefit payments. If, for instance, you might have to be out of work for an extended period of time, your employer may want to replace you so that the workplace is not disrupted. It’s also common for employers to want to fire an injured employee to avoid paying workers’ compensation benefits.
Fortunately, it is illegal for an employer to fire an employee simply because they were injured on the job. This is especially true if the employer is trying to circumvent the workers’ comp system. If you’ve been fired because of a work injury, you may be able to file a suit against your employer.
Forced Resignation is Illegal
Because most employers know it is illegal to fire an employee after they’ve been hurt at work, they may instead try to force you to resign. Typically, your employer will do this either by threatening you with termination or making your work environment so difficult that you have no choice but to quit.
Being pressured to quit your job by your employer is illegal, and is known as a forced discharge. If you’re employer forces you to quit, no matter the means, you’ll still have all the legal rights that you would if you had been terminated.
Always Consult an Attorney After a Work Injury
The most important thing that you can do after you’ve suffered a work injury is to consult a personal injury attorney. An attorney who is aware of work-related injuries will be able to prepare you for the possibility of a forced resignation, as well as a wrongful termination. They can also help you plan a lawsuit against your employer if you are unable to receive the workers’ comp or unemployment benefits that you deserve.
Hiring a personal injury attorney is the best way to protect your rights.
Bring Your Case to Robert White Today
When you’re looking for advice from an attorney after you’ve suffered a work injury and are facing a forced termination, look no further than Braker White. Our attorneys are here to help you in whatever way we can, including fighting for your benefits after you’ve been forced to quit your job.
Consult with us today so that we can start work on your case.
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