The fear of retaliation from filing a Worker’s Compensation claim may stop some employees from benefiting from monies that could aid in their recovery – both physically and financially – following an on-the-job accident. While the attorneys at The Edmonson Law Firm understand that the fear may be very real, we want you to know that the ramifications are nothing more than a myth. Because employment in Georgia is considered to be at-will, an employer can terminate an employee for any reason, at any time… unless it’s unlawful. It is unlawful to fire someone just because that person filed a workers’ compensation claim. At the same time, doing so does not directly violate Georgia law. Instead, it is against Federal law. The same holds true for termination of an employee based on race, age, religious beliefs, national origin, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, involvement in a union, or for filing a sexual harassment claim.
Oftentimes, those fears don’t necessarily begin and end at termination. Our clients have voiced their concerns over being demoted or reassigned. Those avenues are also illegal in the eyes of Georgia workplace law. Some fear being treated poorly by their manager or supervisor following the filing of a claim to encourage them to quit. If that’s the case, it’s important to keep detailed accounts of every instance of mistreatment and start a dialogue with your human resources representative.
The fear of retaliation is just one of the obstacles our clients face when considering filing a Worker’s Compensation claim. Many employees like their job, their boss and the company for which they work. As a result, they don’t want to get anyone in trouble or cost their company money. Please remember: There are two main reasons why Worker’s Compensation Insurance exists:
To encourage the provision of a safe working environment and conditions
To protect employees AND employers in the event of an on-the-job accident
Georgia workplace law requires companies with three or more employees to have Worker’s Compensation Insurance. That means your claim will not cause your employer to close up shop, nor will it rob them of the profits they’ve been endeavoring to make all year. Beyond being afraid that you might be fired or that your boss might like you less, we understand that you may have additional questions or concerns related to your Worker’s Compensation claim. Time is of the essence, and we welcome the opportunity to address your questions and concerns so you can receive the benefits you are due. Call upon the experienced team of Worker’s Compensation attorneys at The Edmonson Law Firm. You can reach us by calling 678-271-9111, emailing us at john@elf-legal.com or filling out our convenient online contact form and we will be in touch with you shortly.Â
Don’t let fear rob you of the opportunity to receive benefits from your recent on-the-job accident to cover medical costs and lost wages – particularly not when your consultation with The Edmonson Law Firm is FREE!