Long-time listener, first-time caller. I've tried asking elsewhere but didn't get any info, so I figured I'll try here.
I was injured at work about 8 months ago, short story: my work was too cheap to have some maintenance done by a professional and decided to lie to me and almost kill me over $100-200. Since then, I've seen what evil companies are capable of. Last week I received an email from the president of my company in “lawyer-esque” wording asking if I'm quitting or intending to return to my old position (I'm not likely to make a full recovery from my injury and I'm sure they want to be off the hook for my injuries). They're trying to play the “you haven't contacted us directly so that may result in voluntary dismissal” card. This is awful because I do keep them updated with my workability status, but I'm mot sure what other contact they would want. They also mentioned that they've continued to pay the premiums for my benefits and now want me to pay it back. I'm currently living off 2/3rds my income and can barely afford rent these days. I have no idea how I'll be able to come up with the extra $1600. From what i understand, there's no law saying they're required to keep paying my premiums from an injury and nothing that requires them to terminate them. I didn't sign anything that says I'd pay them back, nor did I ask them to continue paying for them. My w.c. lawyer is 0 help and says he has no idea, can I fight this or something? I really can't afford to pay that without falling into debt. Needless to say, I don't think I'll be returning.