Workers’ compensation is a crucial safety net that provides financial and medical support to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses on the job. Several misconceptions surround the process of workers’ compensation, which can lead to misunderstandings and anxiety among workers. Keep reading to learn about the five common myths surrounding workers’ compensation that we will debunk in this blog.
- You’ll Only Get a Settlement If Your Injury Happened On-site
One common misconception about workers’ compensation is that it only covers injuries on the workplace premises. In reality, workers’ compensation extends beyond on-site accidents. Even if you get injured on a business trip, at a company event, or while running a work-related errand, you may still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. The key factor is that the injury must be directly related to your employment.
Understanding the broader scope of workers’ compensation helps employees confidently pursue claims for injuries sustained in several work-related settings.
- You Can’t Choose Your Doctor
Another misconception is that injured employees have no say in selecting their treating physician. While the workers’ compensation process typically involves the employer’s insurance company choosing a doctor for the initial evaluation, injured workers often have the right to switch to a different healthcare provider for ongoing treatment. Knowing your rights and discussing your preferences with the insurance adjuster can help ensure you receive appropriate medical care.
- Your Boss Could Fire You If You Make a Claim
Fear of retaliation is a significant concern for employees contemplating a workers’ compensation claim. However, most jurisdictions have laws to protect workers from termination due to filing a legitimate claim. It’s essential to understand your rights and consult with legal professionals if you believe your employer has unfairly treated you after making a workers’ compensation claim. Employees seeking entitled benefits are protected from retaliatory actions by their employers.
- You Need to Be a Full-time Employee
Some employees mistakenly believe that part-time or temporary workers are ineligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The truth is that eligibility is not solely based on employment status but on whether the injury occurred during employment. Part-time and temporary workers are often entitled to the same benefits as full-time employees if work-related injuries occur. Understanding this fact ensures that all workers seek the compensation they deserve regardless of their employment status.
- Filing Might Jeopardize Your Employer
Another prevalent misconception is that filing a workers’ compensation claim could harm the employer or strain the employer-employee relationship. In reality, workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning that employees can receive benefits without proving fault on the employer’s part. Employers typically have insurance coverage to handle such claims, and filing a legitimate claim should not negatively impact the employer. Employees should feel confident pursuing the compensation they need without fear of harming their workplace relationships.
Empower Your Journey with Workers’ Compensation Guidance from Our Experts
Debunking these common misconceptions is crucial for empowering workers to navigate the workers’ compensation process confidently. If you have any questions or concerns about workers’ compensation, consider contacting professionals such as Premier Risk, LLC, who specialize in providing guidance and support in navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation. Understanding your rights and dispelling these myths ensures you can access the benefits you deserve in times of need. Call us at 516-599-8484 for further assistance.
