Suffering a work-related injury can have a significantly detrimental impact on an employee, who will have to endure both physical pain and emotional stress in the aftermath of an accident. On top of these obstacles, some employees even face the added challenge of losing their jobs after sustaining a workplace injury.
Finding yourself unemployed after a work injury can be overwhelming, but knowing the steps you can take to protect your best interests and seek justice for yourself is essential.
Understand your rights
It is crucial to remember that California has labor policies in place to protect employees from termination after a workplace injury. The state’s Labor Code Section 132(a) prohibits employers from terminating employees to break free from workers’ compensation claims.
The Americans with Disabilities Act also mandates that workers cannot be denied reasonable accommodations if they sustain injuries on the job. In addition to civil claims, the employer could face legal liabilities for wrongful termination, misdemeanor or retaliation.
Seek legal representation
If you find yourself fired after a work-related injury, recruiting the help of an attorney specializing in employee rights might be the best course of action. A lawyer can help you clarify your situation, assess whether your termination was lawful and determine if you have grounds to file a wrongful termination claim.
Document everything
Keeping detailed records is vital to strengthening any legal claims you may decide to pursue. These may include records of your injury, medical treatments and communication with your employer.
Being terminated after getting injured on the job can be frustrating as it adds insult to injury, both literally and figuratively. However, amid the stress of losing your job after suffering a workplace injury, it is also important to remember that prioritizing your physical and mental health is crucial. If you believe you are a victim of wrongful termination, it is vital to understand your rights and the options you can take to seek justice and kickstart your journey toward recovery.