How to Know If Your Employer Is Playing Fair in a Claim

Getting injured at work is stressful enough. But dealing with the aftermath, especially when it comes to compensation, can be even more overwhelming. You’d like to think your employer has your back. That they’ll follow the rules, support your recovery, and ensure you’re looked after. But that’s not always how it plays out. So, how can you tell if your employer is doing the right thing by you or quietly cutting corners?

1. Hire a workers’ compensation claim lawyer

This should be your first move. Even if your employer seems supportive, having a team of workers compensation claim lawyers on your side means you’ve got someone on your side who knows how the system works. It levels the playing field. Employers often have insurers and legal teams behind them. You need your own backup too.

A lawyer can:

• Translate the jargon – Workers comp laws can be dense. You’ll get clear answers.
• Spot red flags early – They’ll notice if something isn’t adding up.
• Help with deadlines – There are timeframes that matter. Miss one and your claim could be knocked back.
• Negotiate properly – It’s not just about what you get paid now, but future treatment, return-to-work options, and any permanent damage.
• Protect your job security – If you feel pressure to resign, a lawyer can advise what’s legal and what’s not.

Even a quick consult can give you a clearer idea of where things stand. Don’t wait until things get complicated. Be proactive from the start.

2. Notice how quickly they act

A fair employer won’t drag their feet. They’ll report your injury promptly, help you fill out the right forms, and make sure you’re getting medical attention straight away. If there are delays, excuses, or they keep “waiting to hear back,” that’s worth questioning.

Unreasonable delays can stall your payments and leave you out of pocket. The longer it takes, the more stressful it becomes, especially if you’re off work and bills are piling up.

3. Are they following the proper reporting process?

Employers are legally required to report workplace injuries. There are timelines they need to follow, and the steps are fairly standard:

• Recording the incident
• Notifying their insurer
• Providing you with forms and paperwork to complete
• Supporting your initial medical visit and return-to-work plan

If your boss is avoiding documentation, only talking things through “off the record,” or saying things like “let’s just see how you go,” that’s a red flag. You need things in writing. Always.

4. Are they pushing you to return before you’re ready?

This is a big one. A supportive employer will want you to get better before returning to full duties. But if you’re getting calls asking you to “pop back in” or hinting that others are picking up the slack, that’s not okay.

Some employers might even offer you a lighter role temporarily, only for it to be more demanding than agreed.

You should only return to work when your doctor says it’s safe. And your recovery plan needs to be realistic. If you’re feeling pressured, speak to your lawyer and your doctor immediately. Recovery isn’t a race.

5. How transparent is the communication?

Good employers keep you in the loop. They check in regularly, update you on what’s happening with your claim, and answer questions honestly. If they go quiet, stop replying to emails, or keep pushing everything to the insurer, it’s a sign they’re stepping back from responsibility.

You’re entitled to know where things are up to. If your employer keeps saying “we’re not sure” or blaming someone else, they may not be fully cooperating behind the scenes.

6. Are they cooperating with your healthcare team?

It’s not just about what they say to you; it’s also about how they deal with your doctor, physio, or other treating professionals.

A fair employer:

• Communicates clearly with your medical team
• Follows the restrictions outlined in your certificates
• Doesn’t question or override medical advice
• Helps build a realistic return-to-work plan, not just one that suits their staffing gaps

If you hear that your employer is disagreeing with your treatment plan or ignoring doctor’s orders, that’s a big concern. It can put your recovery at risk.

7. Watch for subtle pressure tactics

Not all unfair behaviour is loud or obvious. Some employers get sneaky. They might:

• Drop hints about how “expensive” your claim is
• Suggest your role might not be available long-term
• Start giving you less info or cutting you out of team updates
• Assign you to tasks that feel more like punishment than light duties

This kind of behaviour is subtle, but designed to make you feel like you’re a burden, or to get you to quit. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

8. Are they following your rights under the law?

Workers’ compensation laws aren’t just guidelines. They’re legal obligations, and your employer has to follow them.

That includes:

• Keeping your job open for a set period (usually 12 months from the date of injury)
• Not discriminating against you because of your injury
• Respecting your need for treatment appointments and rehab
• Making reasonable adjustments to help you return safely

If you’re being treated differently—or feel like your injury is being used against you—it’s time to speak up.

9. Listen to your gut

You don’t need to be a legal expert to know when something feels off. If you’re constantly chasing updates, feeling confused about where things stand, or being made to feel like the bad guy, it’s a sign your employer might not be playing fair. Trust your instincts. Get advice. And don’t try to handle it all on your own.

Don’t Let Things Slide

Workplace injuries can affect every part of your life: your health, your income, your confidence, and your future. If your employer’s making things harder instead of easier, that’s not something to ignore. Start with the right support, stay informed about your rights, and don’t be afraid to push back if something doesn’t feel fair. Because at the end of the day, your recovery should come first.