7 Workers’ Compensation Misconceptions That Should Be Debunked
When you are injured on the job, navigating the workers’ compensation system may seem challenging. What makes it even more complicated is the fact that there are many misconceptions surrounding workers’ compensation claims.
If you suffered a work-related injury or illness, you need to be able to separate fact from fiction when filing a workers’ comp claim. Our Frederick workers’ compensation attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP can walk you through every step of the claims process to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Common Misconceptions About Workers’ Compensation Claims
A quick search on the Internet about workers’ compensation can expose you to several misconceptions that you may believe in. Below, we will discuss some of the most common misconceptions about workers’ comp claims:
Misconception #1: You Cannot File a Workers’ Comp Claim If You Are a Part-Time Employee
This is not true. If you are a part-time employee and you suffer an injury while working, you are still entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Whether you work part-time or full-time, if you are injured on the job, you are entitled to compensation, according to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Misconception #2: You Are Not Entitled to Compensation if the Injury Was Due to Your Fault
Workers’ compensation is a “no-fault” compensation system. This means that even if the injury was your fault, you are still entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. As long as the injury occurred on the job or is related to work, you are entitled to benefits.
Misconception #3: Your Employer Will Be Compensating You
Your employer’s insurance company is responsible for paying your workers’ compensation benefits, not your employer. Your employer may assist you in filing the claim, but they are not responsible for paying the benefits you are entitled to.
Misconception #4: You Could Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim
It is illegal for an employer to fire an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you are fired after filing a claim, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination lawsuit.
Misconception #5: Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim Means Filing a Lawsuit Against Your Employer
Workers’ compensation claims are not lawsuits. When you file a workers’ compensation claim, you are asking your employer’s insurance company to pay for your medical expenses and lost wages.
Misconception #6: Workers’ Compensation Does Not Cover Repetitive Stress/Strain Injuries
Repetitive stress/strain injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis, can be covered by workers’ compensation. These injuries occur over time, rather than from a single accident, but they are still considered work-related injuries.
Misconception #7: You Do Not Need an Attorney When Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim
While you may not be required to hire an attorney to file a workers’ compensation claim, it can be helpful to do so. An attorney can assist you in navigating the claims process and ensuring that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
Learn More About Workers’ Compensation
You need to know the truth about workers’ compensation claims to ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to. If you are still unsure what is true and what is false, seek guidance from our attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP. We help injured workers obtain the workers’ comp benefits they need to get their life back on track. Call 800-248-3352 to schedule a free consultation.
