In Alabama, it is illegal for an employer to fire a worker who files a workers’ comp claim. Let me repeat that IT IS ILLEGAL FOR AN EMPLOYER TO FIRE A WORKER WHO FILES A WORKERS’ COMP CLAIM.

If you are hurt on the job, one of the first things you should do is pursue this benefit. Generally, companies pay an insurance rate based on how many of their employees get hurt, so they are motivated to get you not to file. Other companies are self-insured, so they are REALLY motivated for you not to file.

Good news. Our state looks very unkindly on businesses that pressure employees not to pursue this wage and medical treatment benefit.

Here is how strongly Alabama takes this.

A truck driver in Bessemer was hurt on the job when a strap broke, injuring his arm and shoulder. He said he was fired for seeking legal help on his workers’ comp claim. The judge agreed and told the trucking company to pay his family $750,000 — $250,000 for the driver’s pain and suffering and $500,000 so the company never fires a workers’ comp claimant again.

The company had initially offered the driver $25,000 not to apply for workers’ comp. But the driver said he wanted his arm fixed and thought the trucking company should pay for it.

Court documents state that the company had done this lowball tactic with other employees. The company denies the allegations.

Alabama has the lowest rate of injury compensation in the nation. For example, the loss of an arm is valued at just under $50,000, and in Illinois, that arm is worth more than $400,000. Despite the difference, you need to fight for your rights. It can pay off big.

If you suffer from a personal injury like a construction accident, auto/railroad wreck, wrongful death claim , or slip and fall, you can talk to us at the Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie for free. We want to help you get back on your feet.

Also, join us on  NBC 15 LawCall   here in Mobile every Sunday night at 10:30, right after the news. We will take your calls live. We do like answering your questions. We also have lawyers standing by at our offices on Monday mornings.

Allen Ritchie

Mobile Personal Injury Attorney

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