According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, last year, 2.9 million Americans were injured in the workplace. The expectations of compensation and support for employees who are injured can be misleading, but with the right facts, receiving work benefits won’t be so challenging.

Here are some of the most common misconceptions about workers' compensation:

1. The employer has minimal involvement

If and when an employee is injured, the employer is required to follow up and assist with any insurance claims through workers’ comp. Once this process is complete, many believe that the employer has finished their job. By law, employers are required to stay in contact with the employee and assist them in any rehabilitation therapies or treatments until they can return to work.

2. Not all injuries will qualify

Many workers assume that workers’ comp is only offered in cases of employer negligence. This is not the case. Any injury that has occurred on the job, regardless of how safe the environment is, qualifies for compensation. Injuries ranging from severe physical pain - such as broken limbs or burns - to chronic illnesses from hazardous toxin exposure, and violence between co-workers are all covered by workers’ compensation.

3. Independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ comp

This depends on the situation. In some cases, independent contractors are covered under workers’ compensation. Depending on what state you work in, workers comp may be available. Talk with your attorney to decide what the best route will be for you.

4. Filing for workers’ comp results in termination

Many employees question whether or not to file a workers’ compensation claim for fear of being fired. It is illegal to terminate any employee pursuing a workers’ compensation claim.

5. Fighting a denied claim is a waste of time

If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, that doesn’t necessarily mean ‘the end’. You have the right to file and appeal your case with the chance of having it reopened in another hearing.

If you feel your workers’ compensation claim has been handled unfairly, please contact The Cochran Firm today.