The possibility of suffering a work-related injury can never be underestimated. For those who are employed in the more dangerous occupations, the knowledge that workers’ compensation is usually available may help ease employees’ worries when engaging in a high-risk task. Unfortunately, even the most experienced Tennessee worker could find him- or herself facing a serious injury under the wrong circumstances.
The owners of one company were recently charged with fraud when they allegedly conspired to cheat employees out of full-time benefits from workers’ compensation. The fraud was discovered after an employee suffered serious injuries. The worker and the company owner were using a scissors lift on the day of the accident. According to the report, the owner lost control of the machinery, and it slid down an embankment into a pond. Both men were trapped under water, though the owner was able to quickly free himself.
The worker’s arm was pinned by the machinery. He was trapped underwater for an extended period of time while emergency responders worked to keep his head clear of the water while they worked to free him. He was finally freed and transported by helicopter for treatment of critical injuries to his arm, pelvis and shoulder. Though he has been released from the hospital, he suffers with lingering injuries and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Due to his employment being miscatergorized, he was initially denied full benefits.
The man sought the assistance of an attorney who was able to secure the back pay. The couple are faced with fraud charges for allegedly paying workers in cash to support claims that workers were not full-time. Whenever Tennessee workers are injured on the job, they may struggle with the process of filing for benefits from the workers’ compensation program. An attorney who is well-versed in the proper procedures may provide valuable guidance in filing these claims in a timely manner for maximum allowable benefits.