If you get injured in a work accident, are you in danger of getting fired? Workers who find themselves unable to work following a job-related injury often fear that their employer will "cut them loose," robbing them of their livelihood at the worst possible time.
Thankfully, Louisiana law protects workers who have recently suffered an injury on the job. Employees in our state are entitled to "temporary total disability" benefits when they're disabled by work-related accidents. Not only are employers required to keep them employed, but they're required to accommodate their employees for a period of time once they've been released back to work by a doctor.
After a physician signs a work release for a disabled worker, the employer is required to provide them with "light duty," or a less demanding version of their original role. If the employer cannot provide this, they have to provide TTD benefits.
Can I Get Fired for Filing a Workers' Comp Claim?
Just like with TTD benefits, the state of Louisiana has made it illegal for employers to fire workers for filing a workers' compensation claim. This is one of many reasons why workers should flex their rights and file a claim immediately after an accident. A claim would not only provide a worker with much-needed benefits and medical care, but would also offer them extra job protections.
However, just because it's illegal to retaliate against you doesn't mean that it won't happen. Thankfully, you'll be able to fight back. If you have a good lawyer on your side, they'll be able to hold your employer accountable, fighting for your rightful benefits as an injured worker and for additional damages due to wrongful termination.
Clayton, Frugé & Ward is one of the most effective and renowned injury lawyers in Louisiana. Our team is responsible for hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements, including a $117 million ambulance accident verdict—the largest single injury verdict in state history. Speak with us in a free consultation to learn your legal options if you were injured at work and wrongfully treated.
Call (225) 209-9943 today.