From the time we step into the world of full-time employment, we are filled with an internal pressure to earn money and make a living. There are times when the external pressures to perform may rise to meet our own expectations for ourselves, but for the most part, we are our own driving force.
After a workplace injury that keeps you away from work for a period of time, the external pressures may surpass your internal pressure to work for the first time. While you know the importance of allowing yourself time to heal and regain strength, you may be facing mounting debt and the possibility of losing your job permanently. For many, despite knowing it will harm them in the long term, this is enough to make them return to the workforce sooner than they otherwise would.
While it is difficult to block out the external fears, threats, and intimidation to return to work, as an injured worker you are afforded certain rights that cannot be violated. Certain industries are notorious for attempting to blacklist employees for filing workers’ compensation claims or pressure them unnecessarily to return to their job as quickly as possible—not only is this horrible practice, but it is just plain wrong.
By knowing the rights that are granted to you by Pennsylvania law, you can protect your job, health, and wellbeing as you recover from your workplace injury.
Your Rights After a Workplace Accident Leaves You Injured
After a workplace injury, most people know that they can take time off of work to recover, but many do not know that their rights extend well beyond that. Some employers may take advantage of that. Do not allow yourself to be hoodwinked into returning to your job before you are fully healed.
There are three very important things that you need to know regarding your rights as an injured worker:
- You have the right to time away from your job to heal, free from employer harassment to return early.
- You have the right to receive medical benefits and lost wage benefits through a workers’ compensation claim.
- You have the right to appeal mistakes in or denials of your workers’ compensation benefits.
While it can be intimidating to take time away from work, by allowing yourself a proper recovery you are protecting your future ability to work. Many injured workers in Pennsylvania feel guilty that they are out of work even temporarily, and return too soon only to be reinjured. Follow the direct orders of your physician, and take your time away from work to focus on healing fully and properly.
After You Have Been Hurt On the Job, Call the Attorneys of Schmidt Kramer
Most people never anticipate being hurt on the job, so many are lost when it comes to filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you have been hurt at work, put our experience to work for you; the York workers’ compensation attorneys of Schmidt Kramer are here to protect your rights and help you get back on your feet.
To schedule your consultation with us today, simply call one of our Harrisburg area offices, or fill out our short online contact form to be connected with our firm.