Believe it or not, some people still object to the idea of workers’ comp. They shake their heads and ask why the government gets involved in business affairs. To explain why workers’ comp is important, let’s look at the conditions in the American factories of 1890.
Before Workers’ Comp
The US had no workers’ compensation laws until 1911. Throughout the entire industrial revolution, someone hurt in a workplace accident would likely be fired and replaced by a hopeful waiting by the factory door. There was nothing protecting workers injured by faulty machinery or unsafe processes.
The conditions were abysmal, with some factories rising up to sweltering temperatures due to intense machinery. Before workers’ comp, employees would fall over from heat exhaustion or lose fingers to spinning machines.
The Benefits of Workers’ Comp
Now, employers are required to pay for injuries sustained on the job. In some states, such as California, that could mean any injury, regardless of who was at fault. That means employers have an incentive to prevent injuries and dangerous working conditions whenever possible through safer equipment and better training.
As laws progressed, workers gained even greater protection. One hundred years ago, a workplace injury meant termination. However, modern workers are protected from firing as a result of workers’ comp claims. Likewise, workers can receive lost wages while recovering from their injuries, ensuring they have a source of income while they recover
Workers’ comp fundamentally shifted the balance of power in terms of workplace injuries. When people have the freedom to pursue compensation for injuries without fear of losing their jobs, workplaces become safer for everyone.
If you or someone you love suffered a serious injury while working, you might have a case. If you’d like an experienced Sycamore injury lawyer from Turner Law Group to evaluate your case, please send us an email or call (800) 653-0198.