If you are an employee who is injured on the job, workers’ compensation may be your saving grace when it comes to having a steady source of income while you recover from your accident. Unfortunately, workers’ comp is very complex, and many employers are not too eager to help their employees with this matter. If you have been hurt on the job, here are four typical workers’ comp questions you may want to be answered.
Am I Eligible for Workers’ Comp Benefits?
After being injured, you may wonder if you qualify for workers’ comp benefits. This can be tricky since each state has its own rules about workers’ comp. Generally, if you are an independent contractor, seasonal employee, an undocumented worker, or a domestic worker such as a babysitter, you may not qualify for workers’ comp.
What if the Accident Was My Fault?
Should you be deemed responsible for causing the accident that resulted in you being injured, this should typically not disqualify you from receiving workers’ comp benefits. The exceptions to this are if you were injured while committing a crime, were under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the accident took place, or are found to have deliberately injured yourself in order to get workers’ comp benefits. Should your employer try to blame you unnecessarily for the accident or try to pressure you into not filing for benefits, contact a workers comp attorney to handle your case.
When Should I Report My Accident?
Once you are hurt on the job, you should report your accident and injuries to your immediate supervisor as fast as possible. If your supervisor is not around, report your situation to any member of management so that the accident and your injuries can be documented. The longer you wait to report your accident and injuries, the more likely it will be that your employer or their insurer will try to claim your injuries did not take place while you were at work.
Do I Need an Attorney?
While it’s not imperative you hire an attorney, it does greatly increase the chances your claim will be approved. Since employers and insurers try to avoid paying workers’ comp benefits, your attorney can advise you of your legal rights, speak on your behalf, and ensure you get a reasonable settlement for your workers comp benefits.
Since workers’ comp cases are very complex, don’t leave anything to chance. By hiring an attorney and letting them handle your case, you can receive the benefits you deserve.
