Anybody that has been injured while working for their employer doesn't have to pay for their medical expenses. It is possible that your injury will be covered by using workers' compensation. Here are some common questions people have about using workers' compensation.

Can Your Employer Fire You for Making a Workers' Compensation Claim?

Many employees fear what will happen if they decide to file a claim for workers' compensation since they think that there is a possibility of losing your job as a result of a claim. The purpose of workers' compensation is to protect employers from workplace-related accidents, which includes preventing any retaliation from your employer after making a claim. 

It's important to work with a workers' compensation attorney if you feel like your employer is retaliating against you as a result of your claim. You may have your hours significantly cut, your pay decreases, your responsibilities changed without a good reason, and even unfair treatment from your supervisors. This is one area where you can be protected under the law. 

What Happens If Your Employer Doesn't Have Workers' Compensation Insurance?

Employers are responsible for purchasing workers' compensation insurance based on the size of their business and how long they have been in business. Each state has its own rules regarding workers' compensation, which can range from having workers' compensation from day one of operation to being able to wait until there are five employees hired.

If your employer does not have workers' compensation insurance in a situation where they are legally required to do so, work with a lawyer to seek compensation for your injury. You'll likely need to sue your employer to get the compensation that you deserve to help pay for the injury you sustained while working for them. 

What Happens If You Can't Return to Your Previous Job?

If your injury has left you with a temporary or permanent injury that leaves you unable to fulfill the responsibilities of your position, your employer is required to find a suitable position for you based on what you are capable of doing. For example, if you had a job that involved performing physical labor that you can no longer do, your employer would need to give you training and switch job roles to a desk job where you do not need to be physically active. Reach out to a lawyer if your employer is not providing you with the opportunity to work that you deserve. 

To learn more, speak with a workers comp lawyer.