Workers’ compensation is designed to protect employees who have suffered injuries or illnesses while working. It is a vital safety net that ensures injured employees receive medical care and compensation during their recovery period. But what happens when you are fired after filing for workers’ compensation in Michigan? Navigating such a situation can be complex, but with the guidance of an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer, workers have a clearer path to justice.
Read on to learn how Fieger Law can help you defend your career and build a strong case for wrongful termination.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Michigan?
Workers’ compensation offers financial protection to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. This insurance program ensures that employees receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and even rehabilitation services if they are injured on the job.
The Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Act establishes the foundation for workers’ compensation claims in the state. It is crucial to understand that filing for workers’ compensation is a legitimate and protected action under this Act. Employees who suffer injuries on the job are entitled to seek these benefits without fearing retaliation from their employers.
Can My Employer Terminate Me for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
No employee should be subjected to termination solely for filing a legitimate workers’ compensation claim. Wrongful termination in the context of filing a workers’ compensation claim is a clear violation of an employee’s rights in Michigan. Such actions amount to unlawful retaliation and are protected under various federal and state laws.
The Federal Legal Framework for Wrongful Termination
Under federal laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are prohibited from terminating employees for asserting their rights. If you qualify for protection under either of these statutes and have been fired in retaliation for exercising your rights to workers compensation benefits, you may have a strong case for wrongful termination.
Wrongful Termination Under Michigan State Law
Michigan’s laws extend protection against wrongful termination beyond federal regulations. For instance, under the Michigan Whistleblowers’ Protection Act, you may be protected from being terminated from your job solely for reporting a work-related injury or testifying in a workers’ compensation hearing.
What’s more, while Michigan operates as an at-will employment state, meaning that either you or your employer can terminate your employment at any time and for nearly any reason, retaliation is an exception. That said, demonstrating that your firing was retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim is challenging without proper legal representation.
This is where working with an experienced Michigan workers’ compensation lawyer can be a big help. If you were fired during or after filing a workers’ compensation claim, contact Fieger Law immediately. We will analyze the circumstances to ascertain if wrongful termination occurred and clarify your legal options.
What Constitutes Wrongful Termination in Michigan?
Wrongful termination, especially in the context of filing for workers’ compensation, occurs when an employer terminates an employee in retaliation for exercising their legal rights. In the context of workers’ compensation, if you can prove that your termination was a direct result of seeking workers’ compensation benefits, you may have a compelling case for wrongful termination.
Instances of wrongful termination related to filing for workers’ compensation can manifest in various ways. Your employment might be terminated immediately after submitting a claim, suggesting a direct link between the two events. Alternatively, an employer might create a hostile work environment, making it difficult for you to continue your job after filing for benefits.
Why File A Claim for Unlawful Retaliation?
If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated due to filing for workers’ compensation, building a robust case is paramount. By collaborating with a workers’ compensation lawyer, Michigan residents can pursue various avenues for seeking justice:
- Reimbursement for Lost Past Wages: A successful wrongful termination claim can result in obtaining compensation for the wages you lost due to the unjust firing.
- Reimbursement for Future Wages: Wrongful termination can significantly impact your future income. A strong case can secure compensation for the wages you would have earned had the termination not occurred.
- Punitive Damages Against Your Employer: Wrongful termination cases often result in an award of punitive damages. These damages serve as a deterrent against employers engaging in retaliatory practices.
- Court-Ordered Reinstatement to Your Former Position: If reinstatement is a viable option, a successful case can result in you being reinstated to your former position.
How Can I Build a Strong Case for Wrongful Termination in Michigan?
Building a robust case for wrongful termination requires a comprehensive approach. Here are some key steps to consider:
- Documentation: Maintain a detailed record of all communications with your employer and its workers’ compensation insurance carrier, including emails, text messages, and any conversations related to your workers’ compensation claim.
- Witnesses: If there were witnesses to conversations or actions that suggest retaliation, their testimony can be invaluable.
- Timing: Establish a clear timeline that illustrates the sequence of events leading up to your termination.
Contact Fieger Law for a Free Consultation
If you suspect that your termination was in response to your pursuit of workers’ compensation benefits, it’s essential to gather evidence and seek legal counsel promptly. With the assistance of an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer, Michigan workers are better equipped to navigate the intricate legal landscape of wrongful termination and protect their careers and be compensated for the injustice.
Contact Fieger Law today fill out our online case submission form to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation. We are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are
