There are a variety of reasons why employees may choose to pursue a job lawsuit. For example, if an employee believes himself to be wrongfully discriminated against or discharged, he may pursue a lawsuit making these allegations. Another reason why people pursue job lawsuits is for issues related to getting hurt on the job. Each year around three million private industry employees report that they contract an illness on the job or get hurt at work. Here are some tips for employees who choose to pursue a job lawsuit because of an injury at the work place.
Tip #1. What to do if you get hurt at work? – First Steps
Men and women in the United States missed an average of eight days of work during the year 2013 due to injuries received at the job site. If you are injured while working, it is important to keep prompt documentation of the injury. Even if you are uncertain whether or not you wish to pursue workers comp or a job lawsuit, you should document the injury just in case by filing an incident report with your employer. It is important to note details such as the nature of the injury, the location of the injury and any precipitating events that may have occured. Make sure to get any medical attention you need right away and keep all the documentation from your visit.
Tip #2. When To Hire A Workmans Comp Lawyer?
Often, the workers compensation process can work without needing a workers compensation attorney. In the year 2011, federal workers compensation laws covered the medical expenses of nearly 126 million employees. However, there are some circumstances in which a workers compensation lawyer could be an important asset. If you receive any resistance from your employer while filling out incident reports or applying for workers compensation, it may be important to have a lawyer on your side to make sure your interests are represented and your rights are protected. Also, if there are any complicating circumstances such as a pre-existing disability, it will probably be helpful to have a workers compensation lawyer to help navigate the legal system.
Tip #3. How To Decide Between Filing A Lawsuit Or Workers Comp?
One important factor to note is that you will have to make a decision between receiving workers compensation or suing your employer. You cannot do both. The less risky decision is filing for workers compensation, as often 100% of medical costs are covered. Another benefit to workers compensation is avoiding the long wait. You will start receiving the medical and monetary benefits right away. However, some employees choose to file a lawsuit because this is the only way to sue for punitive damages.
If you have any questions or comments related to job lawsuits or workers compensation, please post a comment.