An accident at work that results in an injury is a frustrating situation for any worker. Workers who find themselves in this situation and are debating quitting their jobs should know that it could result in unforeseen financial repercussions. Quitting a job after a workplace injury can mean more than losing a paycheck — it can mean you lose the ability to pursue financial remedies like workers’ compensation.
Reasons to stay employed after an injury
It may be tempting to quit after an on-the-job injury. However, staying employed can provide benefits that protect both your financial stability and legal rights. Examples include:
- Access to Workers’ Compensation: Employees injured on the job are often eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which can include medical expense coverage and a portion of their wages. Resigning could jeopardize these benefits.
- Job security and accommodations: Many jurisdictions require employers to offer reasonable accommodations to injured workers, allowing them to continue working in a modified capacity. Quitting could mean losing out on these accommodations.
These points illustrate the potential advantages of maintaining employment status after an injury. Workers should carefully consider these benefits, as they can significantly impact their recovery and financial health.
Legal protections for injured workers
The law grants injured workers certain protections that can support their recovery and financial stability. This often includes protection from retaliation as it is illegal for employers to retaliate against workers for reporting injuries or claiming workers’ compensation benefits. Depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of the case, injured workers may also have a right to return to their job or a similar position once they are able to work again. These legal protections support workers during their recovery period and encourage them to exercise their rights without the fear of losing their jobs or facing unfair treatment.
While the immediate aftermath of an on-the-job injury can be challenging and stressful, quitting your job can have significant legal and financial repercussions. In many cases staying employed can better ensure you maintain eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits, job security, and legal protections that can play an important role during your recovery.
