When it comes to worker’s compensation claims, your employer and their insurer likely try to avoid them at all costs. After all, these claims can be costly, time consuming, and they’re losing an employee for some amount of time. For these reasons, among others, many employers discourage worker’s comp claims. There are plenty of different ways that they might do this. So, we’re going to try and make you aware of a few methods they might use to discourage you, or make you think twice, about filing that claim..
How Employers Discourage Worker’s Comp Claims and Make You Think Twice Before Filing
Surveillance Cameras
Fraudulent claims are particulate pesky for employer’s. For that reason, many employers might install surveillance cameras. That way, if any accidents do happen (or they suspect a false claim), they’ll be able to watch the actual event and see for themselves. Although, there can be many motives behind an employer recording their employees. One way that this can discourage worker’s comp claims, is because it gives the impression that your employer doesn’t trust you. Therefore, you might try to avoid filing as a means of staying outside of the microscope.
Post-Injury Drug Testing
By making it a known fact that after an injury, you will be drug tested, many people might avoid filing as well. The idea of drug testing, like surveillance, can be quite discouraging to most employees. It seems that, even those who do not use any type of drugs, are still put off by the idea of a drug test and have an irrational fear of not passing. Therefore, the worry is not only not having your injury covered, but also getting fired. For these reasons, many employees will avoid filing a claim and bringing attention to themselves.
Incentive-Based Safety Programs
I’m sure you’ve heard of some companies, or even your own, that offers celebrations, prizes, and etc. for reaching certain safety goals. For example, if your boss throws a party after every 100 days that are accident-free. While this might seem innocent enough, and maybe it is, it can also be a great way to deter injured workers from reporting their injury. When there are incentives on the line, it can put a lot of pressure on an employee to keep their injury to themselves. After all, you don’t want to lose their work perks. Furthermore, they don’t want their co-workers to blame them for a loss of privileges.
In short, employers discourage worker’s comp claims from time to time for a number of reasons. However, this should not stop you from seeking medical assistance when you need it. While work incentives are nice, and drug tests can be daunting— your injury is more important than these concerns. If you’re fearing retribution, or a denial of your comp claims, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney. That way, you’ll know what to expect from this process. We wish you luck with your injury, and extend our condolences for this difficult time.