For many injured workers, the injury itself is only part of the stress. A common fear comes next: What if reporting the injury puts your job at risk?
That concern is common in southeastern Missouri, where many people work in factories, warehouses and production facilities. Missing work can create financial pressure, and many workers worry that filing a claim could affect their future with their employer.
Missouri law allows you to report a workplace injury and seek workers’ compensation benefits. It also prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who use those protections.
What protections do injured workers have?
If you suffer an injury on the job, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Depending on the circumstances, those benefits may help pay for medical care and replace part of your lost income while you recover.
Many workers hesitate to file a claim because they fear negative consequences at work. Missouri law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report workplace injuries or seek benefits through the workers’ compensation system.
What counts as workers’ compensation retaliation?
Retaliation can take several forms. While many people focus on the possibility of losing their jobs, other actions by an employer may also raise concerns. Examples can include:
- Terminating your employment after you report an injury
- Demoting you after you file a workers’ compensation claim
- Reducing your scheduled work hours following an injury report
- Reassigning you to less favorable shifts because of a claim
- Threatening you for seeking workers’ compensation benefits
- Imposing disciplinary measures that appear connected to a claim
Missouri law prohibits employers from taking adverse action against workers because they reported an injury or sought benefits. Whether a particular action qualifies as retaliation depends on the reason for the employer’s decision.
Protecting your rights after a workplace injury
A workplace injury can create uncertainty about your health, income and future employment. Many workers worry that reporting an injury could put their jobs at risk. Missouri law, however, prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report injuries or pursue workers’ compensation benefits.
If you’re facing retaliation, call Andrew directly at 573-651-8644 to discuss your situation.