Workplace injuries are common, but many employees aren’t aware of the rights they have when it comes to disability leave. Understanding a little bit about personal injury law can help you get the medical leave you need when you experience workplace injuries.
Employers might not know the specifics of what you’re entitled to either, so there’s a good chance that you won’t get the attention or benefits that you’re entitled to. We’re going to take a look at some of your rights in this article, giving you a better idea of how to handle a workplace injury.
Let’s get started.
Understanding Your Right to Disability Leave
If you become sick or get hurt while working, there are two federal laws that might be able to help you get the time off that you need and be compensated while you recover.
Those who are injured or sick to the point that they’re disabled might benefit from the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This act protects people with disabilities from being discriminated against in any sense, whether that means salaries, raises, benefits, or anything else in the workplace.
Employers with more than 15 employees are covered by this act and must adhere to the specifications within it. This act won’t help you in terms of medical leave, but it will support you if your injuries require that you have some accommodation at the workplace.
The ADA requires that employers make accommodations to help a disabled employee complete the necessary tasks of the job.
The Family and Medical Leave Act
The FMLA is an act that gives individuals up to three months of unpaid leave per year without jeopardizing their employment status.
This act applies when a person has experienced a serious injury or they have to tend to the health and wellness of an immediate family member. It also requires that the employer maintain all health insurance benefits while the individual is out of work and recovering.
Businesses that employ more than 50 people are required to comply with this act. Further, anyone who works for the business, within 75 miles of the business, is entitled to these benefits as well.
There are some gray areas with the law, though. It can be tough to know what you’re entitled to even if you’re aware of the laws and acts that are meant to support workers.
That’s why you should find an attorney whenever you’ve experienced a workplace injury or accident. In fact, any time that you’re required to miss work for a health-related incident having to do with yourself or an immediate family member, a legal team can help.
If your employer is a good one, they’ll help you receive all of the benefits you’re entitled to. Not all of us are fortunate enough to have that support, though.
Want to Learn More About Your Workplace Rights?
Hopefully, the ideas above have given you a little idea of your right to disability leave. There is typically something to be done that can help you keep your job and provide you with some income while you recover.
We’re here to help you learn more about your situation, though. Explore our site for more ideas.
