Getting injured on the job can change your life for the worse. Your ability to earn and support yourself or your family can be put at risk in an instant, with medical bills piling up while you recover. Fortunately, the workers’ compensation system is there to protect you.
Should you seek workers’ compensation benefits, it is illegal for your employer to fire you in retaliation. However, despite this law, wrongful terminations do occur. As such, staying informed and prepared is crucial.
In this guide, we help you understand workers’ compensation, your rights regarding termination, and how hiring job injury lawyers in Minnesota can safeguard your future.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is an insurance program for employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. Through this system, injured workers receive the care they need without having to sue their employer for damages.
One can file a workers’ compensation claim for various reasons, including workplace accidents caused by equipment malfunctions and occupational illnesses, such as diseases from inhaling toxic substances. Depending on the severity and nature of the damage, a claim may include the following:
- Medical Benefits: Coverage for hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and treatments related to the injury.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits: Compensation for lost wages if you cannot work at all while recovering.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) Benefits: Financial support if you can work but at a reduced capacity, leading to lower earnings.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits: Compensation for long-term impairments that partially affect your ability to work.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits: Financial assistance if you are permanently unable to return to work in any capacity.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Support for retraining or job placement if you cannot return to your previous line of work.
- Death Benefits: Payments to the dependents of an employee who passes away due to a job-related injury or illness.
Workers’ Comp and Wrongful Termination
One of the biggest concerns for employees is the possibility of losing their jobs after filing a workers’ compensation claim. This fear often prevents them from seeking the benefits they deserve.
Generally, firing an employee in retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim is illegal under Minnesota law. Your employers cannot punish, demote, or terminate you simply because you exercised your right to file a claim. However, they can still terminate you for unrelated reasons, such as company-wide layoffs, violation of company policies, and performance-related issues.
Their reasons for firing you may be valid, but some employers may attempt to disguise a retaliatory termination as a legal dismissal. If you suspect wrongful termination, you must seek legal advice.
Why You Need Job Injury Lawyers in Minnesota
No employee should deal with a workplace injury and the potential threat of getting fired. If you are in such a situation, a lawyer can protect your rights.
Expertise in Workers’ Compensation Laws
Minnesota’s workers’ compensation laws can be complicated, but an attorney can guide you through the process. This professional will follow the correct procedures and ensure you receive fair treatment.
Protection Against Employer Retaliation
If your employer attempts to fire you in retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim, an attorney can help you take legal action. They can gather evidence, document violations, and hold your company accountable for illegal actions.
Suppose you have been wrongfully fired while on workers’ compensation; you may file a lawsuit. Lawyers know all the specific state regulations and laws that pertain to workers’ comp and wrongful termination and can build a strong case.
Maximizing Compensation
Expect insurance companies to try to minimize payouts. Consequently, a lawyer will negotiate on your behalf. You should receive all the benefits you are entitled to, including medical expenses, lost wages, and potential disability compensation.
Handling Disputes and Denials
If your company disputes or denies your claim outright, your lawyer will represent you in hearings and appeals. They will fight for your right to compensation by challenging incorrect medical evaluations and low settlement offers.
Guidance on Returning to Work or Vocational Rehabilitation
Should your injury prevent you from returning to your previous job, your attorney can assist in securing vocational rehabilitation services. Through their services, you may find new employment opportunities.
Contact Your Workers’ Compensation Law Firm in Minneapolis
Workers’ compensation exists to support employees, and filing a claim should never cost you your job. At Osterbauer Law Firm, we are ready to advocate for you in your time of need.
As a workers’ compensation law firm in Minneapolis, we specialize in defending the rights of injured workers and fighting any form of retaliation. Once you schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with us, our team will thoroughly study your case and inform you of your options. Trust us to work until you can move forward with the benefits and peace of mind you deserve.
Your job injury should not define your future. Let us help you reclaim control and achieve the best possible outcome. Contact Osterbauer Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and start your comeback journey.