Stamford Connecticut Accident Lawyers: Protecting Your Rights After a Work Accident
If you’ve been injured in a work-related accident in Stamford, Connecticut, you may have concerns about your rights and how your employer will react. Understanding your legal protections is crucial. The Workers’ Compensation Act in Connecticut safeguards employees against retaliation for filing workers’ compensation claims. Despite these protections, some employers may still attempt to retaliate, making it essential to have experienced legal representation. The accident lawyers at USAttorneys.com are here to help you navigate these challenging situations and ensure your rights are protected.
Can My Employer Retaliate Against Me if I Get Hurt in a Work Accident?
Under the Workers’ Compensation Act, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee who has been injured on the job and filed a workers’ compensation claim. Retaliation can take many forms, including:
- Discharge from Employment: Terminating an employee during their recovery period.
- Delaying Benefits: Intentionally delaying the filing of necessary documents to prevent the employee from receiving benefits promptly.
- Unlawful Termination: Firing an employee upon their return to work after a workers’ compensation leave.
- Denial of Benefits: Refusing to pay owed wages or depriving the employee of entitled benefits.
If you suspect your employer has retaliated against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim, you have several options for seeking justice and ensuring your rights are upheld.
Steps to Take if You Experience Retaliation
Hire an Experienced Stamford Accident Lawyer
One of the most effective steps you can take is to hire a Stamford, Connecticut accident lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation cases. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a civil action in superior court, where you can seek:
- Reinstatement to Your Job: If you were wrongfully terminated, you could be reinstated to your position.
- Back Wages: Compensation for the wages you lost due to the wrongful termination.
- Reestablishment of Benefits: Restoration of any benefits that were unlawfully denied.
File a Complaint with the Workers’ Compensation Commission
You also have the option to file a complaint with the chairman of the Workers’ Compensation Commission. Here’s how the process works:
- Submit a Complaint: File a complaint detailing the retaliation you experienced.
- Commissioner Assignment: The chairman will assign a commissioner to oversee your case.
- Hearing: A hearing will be scheduled in the district where you were employed.
- Decision: After the hearing, the commissioner will issue a written decision to both parties.
Benefits of Legal Representation
While you can take legal action on your own, having a skilled accident lawyer by your side can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Employers are more likely to take your claims seriously and rectify their actions when they know you have legal representation.
Understanding Civil Action
Civil actions differ from criminal actions. Criminal actions involve prosecution for crimes like burglary, DUI, or murder, typically resulting in fines or jail time. Civil actions, on the other hand, deal with disputes over rights, contracts, or torts—wrongful acts leading to injury. In the context of workers’ compensation, civil action can be taken against an employer for failing to provide benefits or for retaliating against an employee who has filed a claim.
Protecting Your Rights with USAttorneys.com
If you’ve experienced retaliation from your employer after filing a workers’ compensation claim, it’s essential to seek legal advice. The accident lawyers at USAttorneys.com are experienced in handling such cases and can offer the support and representation you need. Here’s how they can help:
- Expert Guidance: Providing you with detailed information about your rights and options.
- Case Evaluation: Assessing the specifics of your case to build a strong legal strategy.
- Legal Representation: Representing you in court or during negotiations with your employer.
- Advocacy: Ensuring you receive the compensation and benefits you are entitled to.
Conclusion
Experiencing a work-related injury is stressful enough without the added worry of employer retaliation. Understanding your legal rights and having experienced legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. The accident lawyers at USAttorneys.com are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured workers in Stamford, Connecticut. If you need help with your case or want to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable attorney, contact USAttorneys.com today for a free consultation.
