Too Scared to File for Workers' Comp Benefits
A South Carolina newspaper is reporting that workers' compensation claims in that state are down, but the reason may have nothing to do with improvements in on-the-job safety.
Some are speculating that because of the economy, high unemployment and record layoffs that have occured as a result of the recession, some workers may be afraid to report their injuries and claim workers' compensation benefits.
That chilling revelation is likely true for many people. Some workers may fear that could be fired for reporting a work injury and trying to collect workers' compensation benefits, but the law clearly prohibits such retaliation.
Others may be worried about how they'll make ends meet while out of work and receiving workers' comp benefits. That's a legitimate concern, as workers' compensation does not cover and injured person's entire salary.
However, failing to report a workplace injury is a bad idea, and it may jeopardize a worker's ability to collect benefits in the future. Workers should report injuries immediately to their employer -- and definitely within 30 days. The employer is required to report injuries to the North Carolina Industrial Commission.