What are my rights if a medical condition was ignored by my employer?
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What are my rights if a medical condition was ignored by my employer?
I was working for a commercial roofing company doing sheet metal on tar and rubber laid roofs on large buildings. Last week I became very ill feeling at work. It was near 100F out and I tried to sit down and rest and hydrate. I was told to get the (F) up and get to work. I did, and I threw up and became even more ill feeling. I told everyone I needed to go to the hospital and no one listened.I had to call my GF, to come get me. When I got to the clinic they rushed me to the ER and ran tests. They found out I was severely dehydrated. Now I’m fired. Do I have a case of wrongful termination? Is my employer liable for paying my hospital bills, and perhaps should I be compensated.
Asked on July 31, 2011 Nebraska
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
I am so sorry for you. You should definitely consult with an attorney on the matter and see what recourse you have. The consultation should be free. You have damages - the hospital bills and loss of employment - so that is a plus already. In the meantime, file for unemployment. If they deny you based upon your being terminated for "cause" - leaving the job - appeal the decision. I I highly doubt that they would win once the facts come to light in a hearing. You were not terminated through any fault on your part - which is what they basis would be - but rather the work conditions the employer created. Good luck to you.
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
I am so sorry for you. You should definitely consult with an attorney on the matter and see what recourse you have. The consultation should be free. You have damages - the hospital bills and loss of employment - so that is a plus already. In the meantime, file for unemployment. If they deny you based upon your being terminated for "cause" - leaving the job - appeal the decision. I I highly doubt that they would win once the facts come to light in a hearing. You were not terminated through any fault on your part - which is what they basis would be - but rather the work conditions the employer created. Good luck to you.
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