Workers’ compensation can help you recover and get back to work. However, after a workplace injury, you may hesitate to file a workers’ compensation claim. Too many other people like you go without the benefits they need because they fear that they will lose their job or ruin their relationship with their boss.
Remember these important facts if you need to file a claim.
Your boss cannot fire you for making a workers’ comp claim
In California, your employer cannot terminate you just because you filed for workers’ comp benefits. They also may not retaliate against you in other ways. Examples of retaliation include:
- Cutting your wages
- Giving you undesirable shifts
- Excluding you from work activities
- Directing verbal abuse at you
Your employer’s insurance pays your expenses, not your employer
All employers in California must carry workers’ compensation insurance. The insurer, not your employer, is responsible for covering the medical costs and lost wages associated with your injury. Your boss will need to pay insurance premiums regardless of the outcome of your claim.
Sometimes, an employer may fail to have works’ compensation insurance in violation of state law. In these cases, the company is responsible for the expenses associated with a workplace injury. You can report an uninsured employer to the Labor Commissioner’s Office.
Hesitating to act after an injury could be costly. You have only 30 days to report your injury and one year to file for workers’ compensation benefits. Act quickly to ensure you receive the financial assistance you need.
