Though certain careers are far more dangerous than others, no job is entirely risk-free. From major accidents to repetitive stress injuries (and everything in between), American workers are subject to hundreds of different types of work-related injuries every single day.
Workers’ compensation was first introduced in an attempt to offset the financial burden sustained by employees who are injured while on the job. Since these injured individuals may be faced with any number of different financial challenges (such as medical bills, physical therapy, lost wages, in-home care, childcare, loss of income, etc), the financial assistance workers’ compensation provides is often much-needed.
Unfortunately, not every injured worker gets easy access to the financial compensation they deserve. If you are having trouble receiving the compensation you are rightfully entitled to, talking to an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Camdenton and Lebanon, MO, may be your best course of action. Today, our workman’s comp attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks is here to share with you a few simple but important facts about workers’ compensation.
4 Things To Know About Workers’ Compensation
1. Workers’ Compensation Is Mandatory For Most Employers.
Businesses with five or more employees are required to purchase workers’ compensation insurance no matter what their industry. Businesses in certain higher-risk industries, such as construction, are required to purchase workers’ compensation if they have even one employee. Companies that meet these personnel minimums but neglect to purchase this insurance may face legal consequences.
2. Employers Are Prohibited From Discriminating Against Injured Employees.
Some employees are hesitant to file a workers’ compensation claim because they are afraid of the consequences they may face. However, if you are injured on the job, you have a legal right to pursue compensation. Employers are expressly prohibited from discriminating against employees who file workers’ compensation claims in any way. If you believe you have been the victim of such discrimination, contact a workers’ compensation lawyer immediately.
3. Missouri Is A No-Fault Compensation State.
Many people assume that employees can only be compensated for their injuries if the accident was self-caused. However, this is not always the case. As a no-fault workers’ compensation state, Missouri laws allow injured workers to seek compensation even if they were not directly at fault for their accidents.
4. You Have To Choose Between Filing For Workers’ Comp & Suing Your Employer
Employers are legally required to provide a safe work environment for their employees. If they fail to keep their employees safe, they are legally required to provide them with access to financial compensation via workers’ compensation (assuming they meet the minimum employee requirements). If you file a claim under your employer’s workman’s comp policy, you are essentially acknowledging that your employer is fulfilling his responsibilities by taking advantage of this benefit. This means that you cannot sue your employer for neglect or negligence. A workers’ compensation attorney in Eldon MO can help you evaluate which may be the better move financially.
Deputy & Mizell, LLC Is Your Workers’ Compensation Resource
If you have suffered a work-related injury in Lebanon, Eldon, Camdenton, Osage Beach, or any of the surrounding areas, we hope you’ll consider scheduling a consultation with Deputy & Mizell, LLC.
With early beginnings tracing back to 1971, our Mid-Missouri personal injury law firm has been serving clients all over the region for several decades. In that time, we have helped hundreds of clients earn the settlements they need and deserve. If you would like to learn more about our personal injury services in Mid-Missouri, visit our website at www.DeputyAndMizell.com.
Contact Deputy & Mizell, LLC
Lebanon: 417-532-2191 Facebook
Camdenton: 573-346-9990 Twitter
Tuscumbia: 573-369-0001 Google+
www.DeputyandMizell.com LinkedIn
