Can You Sue a Job for Stress?
If you believe that the stresses of your job have caused you to suffer physically, mentally, or emotionally, you may be able to sue your job for damages. But, the first step in doing so is to understand the general framework of filing a case against an employer for work-related stress.
Understand The Definition Of Stress-Related Injuries
Stress-related injuries, also known as Occupational Stress Injuries (OSIs), refer to a broad range of physical and psychological conditions that develop as a direct result of job-related stress. Examples of this type of injury might include anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic fatigue, and other physical and mental illnesses, such as high blood pressure, ulcers, heart disease, and more.
Are You Eligible To Sue Your Employer?
The legal framework for OSIs can vary from state to state. Generally, one of the most significant factors in determining whether or not you’re eligible to sue is whether or not your job caused your stress-related injury. This means that you must be able to prove that you were subjected to abnormal working conditions on a regular basis that put you at a mental or physical disadvantage.
Collect Evidence To Strengthen Your Case
If you are taking the necessary steps to sue your employer for work-related stress, it’s important to collect evidence to support your case. This evidence can include things such as:
- Medical records and bills related to your injury or condition
- Documents that prove your employment with the company
- Witness testimony from people who can attest to how your job caused you to suffer
- Records of grievances or complaints filed prior to your injury
Seek Legal Advice
If you believe that the stresses of your job have caused you to suffer physical, mental, or emotional harm, the best way to understand your legal options is to contact a qualified lawyer. A lawyer can provide strategic advice, ensure you receive the best legal representation, and help you decide if you should pursue a lawsuit or not.
At the end of the day, when considering a lawsuit against your employer for OSIs, it’s important to understand the complexities of your state’s legal framework — and to make sure you have ample evidence to support your case. If you do decide to take action, be sure to seek the counsel of a qualified lawyer so you can get the best legal representation possible.