SIGNS OF EMPLOYER RETALIATION IN THE WORKERS’ COMP PROCESS
Individuals who sustain an injury in the workplace may be hesitant to come forward or pursue a workers’ compensation claim for a myriad of reasons. Among these, perhaps the most common is that they are concerned about facing retaliation from their employer. Although reduced pay and firing are two known examples of this, there may be other factors that indicate an employee is being retaliated against. Here are a few other ways in which employer retaliation can occur.
REDUCED HOURS OR SHIFT REASSIGNMENTS
If an employee notices that they are suddenly being asked to leave work early or are no longer being scheduled for their regular shifts, this may be a sign that their employer is retaliating against them. This is often done in an effort to make an employee’s job more difficult or to make it so that they are not able to earn the same amount of money.
OVERT DISCIPLINARY ACTION
Another way in which employer retaliation can manifest is through sudden and unprovoked disciplinary action. This might take the form of a write-up or being placed on probationary status at work. If this occurs after an employee has filed a workers’ compensation claim, it may be indicative of retaliatory behavior on the part of their employer.
UNCHARACTERISTICALLY POOR PERFORMANCE REVIEWS
A significant change in the way an employee is being evaluated may also be indicative of retaliation. In particular, if an employee who has always received positive performance reviews suddenly starts receiving negative ones, this may be cause for concern. This is especially true if the negative reviews are not based on any actual changes in job performance.
BEING EXCLUDED FROM MEETINGS OR PROJECTS
If an employee who is typically included in certain meetings suddenly finds themselves being left out or they are not being assigned to projects that fall under the scope of their role/otherwise would have worked on, this may also be a sign of employer retaliation. This can be particularly difficult to deal with if the excluded employee is not given any explanation as to why they are no longer needed.
BEING REASSIGNED TO A DIFFERENT TEAM OR MANAGER
In some cases, an employee may be reassigned to a different team or given a new manager as a form of retaliation. This can often lead to feelings of isolation and may make it more difficult for the employee to do their job effectively. If this happens soon after an employee files a workers’ compensation claim, it may be worth investigating further.
LOUISVILLE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWYER
Employees who pursue a workers’ compensation claim have a right to do so without retaliation from their employer. Our Louisville workers’ compensation attorney can help ensure that you are receiving the benefits you deserve and are entitled to. Discuss your legal options today with a member of our team by calling 502-584-5455 or filling out this short form.