Many workers are worried that they will be fired if they hire a work comp attorney or bring a claim after a workplace injury. We’re here to dispel some of these common myths and offer some advice for what to do after a workplace injury in Minnesota.
- Can you be fired for hiring an attorney after a work injury? No. In fact, you have more protection when you hire counsel, than you do trying to go it alone. The law has built protections within the statute that protects the decision to hire an attorney and pursue a case.
- Can my employer or insurer interfere or penalize me? Absolutely not. There are significant penalties to both employers and insurance companies if they in any way attempt to retaliate, penalize, or obstruct your right to bring a case or hire an attorney. Minn. §176.82 states that “Any person discharging or threatening to discharge an employee for seeking workers’ compensation benefits or in any manner intentionally obstructing an employee seeking workers’ compensation benefits is liable in a civil action for damages incurred by the employee…”
- Injured employees are much more vulnerable when they go into this process without professional information or knowledge. The playing field in this highly regulated area of the law is extremely uneven. Employers and large insurance companies have all of the essential information. Employees are often left with little to no resources or information to fight for their rights and benefits. Hiring a good attorney helps level that playing field.
- Why shouldn’t I take on my case without an attorney? Because of the many tight deadlines and complex regulations, those who don’t hire counsel often find themselves to have lost out on claims they otherwise could have brought. Hiring an attorney will help get you informed and protected.
At Teplinsky Law Group, we know exactly how to protect your rights as a worker. If you’re interested in speaking with one of our Twin Cities work comp attorneys, call us at 612-465-0320 to schedule a free consultation. Even if you are unsure of hiring legal help for your injury, it never hurts to call.
