For many full-time workers in California and across the country, employment is not only about wages, but also about the many benefits that full-time employees receive. Eligible full-time employees often receive benefits such as paid vacations, health insurance and worker’s compensation. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for employers in today’s fast-paced world of business to retaliate against employees for using benefits to which they are entitled. When this happens, victims can take legal action. A man in another state claims he was fired in retaliation for using worker’s compensation benefits and he has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit.
The man worked as a laborer in the public works department in his city. He claims he was retaliated against and fired for filing a worker’s compensation claim after being injured at work. According to the lawsuit, he was performing his job duties and riding on the back of a garbage truck when he was struck by a vehicle. The lawsuit said the impact caused the man to suffer severe injuries and he was rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Allegedly, the man’s injuries required that he take time off from work to recover. The plaintiff alleges that his supervisor threatened to fire him if he filed for worker’s compensation. He claimed he had no choice but to use his legally entitled worker’s compensation benefits to cover his increasing medical expenses. According to allegations, the plaintiff was fired not long after filing for medical leave.
Retaliating against an employee for using benefits to which he or she is entitled is a direct violation of labor laws. Workers in California who have had their rights violated by an employer may want to consider discussions with an attorney. A successful wrongful termination lawsuit could result in much-needed compensation to replace lost wages.
