A workplace accident or injury can cause a myriad of problems for victims and their families. Perhaps most of all, it can be confusing and frustrating as they try to navigate the process of receiving workers’ compensation. With mounting medical bills, lost wages, and more concerns, it is important to get questions about your eligibility answered promptly.
If you or your loved one is struggling with the fallout from a workplace injury or illness, here are a few questions to ask to determine your eligibility for compensation:
Did Your Injury Occur at Work?
The first question to determine eligibility is whether your accident or injury occurred at work. While an at-work incident is an easy yes to this question, you may also be entitled to compensation if your injury happened while outside the workplace. If you were doing work at home, on the road, or elsewhere – especially if you were “clocked in” at the time of your injury or accident – you may still be eligible for workers’ compensation.
Could Your Injury Have Been Prevented?
In some cases, the fault of your employer is an important factor in whether you are eligible for compensation. If your employer is responsible for your injury or illness or could have prevented it, they are likely to be on the hook for some kind of restitution. Even if there is no obvious fault in your case, your employer and their insurance provider may still be responsible for compensating you for the incident.
Are You Employed Full-Time or Part-Time?
Depending on where you live, your employment status may impact your eligibility for workers’ compensation. In some states, you must be employed full-time to be eligible. In other states, you can be a part-time employee if you meet specific qualifications such as hours worked per week. In other states, employment of any type qualifies you for these benefits.
If you are wondering what your state’s laws say about workers’ compensation, speak to a Medford workplace accident lawyer. Your local legal team can offer insight into how workers’ compensation works in your area – and whether you might have a case.
Contact Black, Chapman, Petersen & Stevens for more additional information.
