Hurt at Work

A workers' compensation case goes forward only on a written notice of claim given within one year of the accident, or within three years of the first symptom of an occupational disease. It goes to the employer or an administrative law judge, in simple language, with the date and place of the accident and the nature of the injury.

• Where the injury led to death within two years, a dependent or the legal representative may claim within those two years or within one year of the death, whichever is later.
• No notice is needed where, within the same period, there was a hearing or a request for one, a voluntary agreement, or medical or surgical care furnished for the injury.
• An employer contesting the claim files a notice saying so, with the specific grounds, by the deadline the section sets, or begins paying compensation.

• Conn. Gen. Stat. § 31-294cStatuteNotice of claim for compensation. Notice contesting liability. Exception for dependents of certain deceased employeesOpens cga.ct.gov ↗

An employer may not discharge, discipline or discriminate against an employee for filing a claim or exercising rights under the workers' compensation chapter, or deliberately misinform or dissuade an employee from filing. The employee may sue for reinstatement, back wages, benefits and other damages, punitive damages included, with attorney's fees for one who prevails, or file a complaint with the chairperson of the Workers' Compensation Commission.

• Conn. Gen. Stat. § 31-290aStatuteDischarge, discipline or discrimination prohibited. Misinformation or dissuasion prohibited. Right of actionOpens cga.ct.gov ↗