Perhaps you’ve heard about workers’ compensation but aren’t too familiar with what it is and who it covers. Workers’ comp is insurance coverage that benefits most employees in the nation. Regardless of fault, employers are required to offer this to employees when they are injured on the job. There are a few things you can look at to determine whether you’re eligible for workers’ compensation.
Your Employer Must Be Covered
Most employers are required by law to be covered by workers’ compensation. Though laws vary by state, employers with at least one employee are typically required to carry this coverage. Some employers carry this type of insurance even if they don’t have to do it. This helps the company stay out of legal trouble if an employee gets injured and considers suing the business.
You Have to Be an Employee
There are a handful of requirements that indicate whether someone is an employee or not. For example, you’re considered an employee if your salary, hours and job security are controlled by the employer. Volunteers don’t get a salary, so they aren’t considered employees. Independent contractors don’t typically get their hours governed by an employer, so they aren’t considered employees either. Freelancers, farmworkers, consultants and other similar professionals may not be considered employees, so it’s important you figure that out before filing a claim.
Your Condition Must Be Directly Related to Work
Whether you have an injury or an illness, you must be able to prove it was a direct result of your line of work. For example, if you are a secretary and spend a considerable amount of time at the computer, your carpal tunnel syndrome could likely be the result of your job. If you are a secretary and get in a car accident while on your way home from work, your injury would probably not be related to your job.
You Must Meet All Deadlines
There are deadlines for which you have to report your injury or illness to your employer and there are deadlines for which you must file an insurance claim. It’s best to speak with an attorney to learn what all the deadlines are concerning your injury or illness so you don’t forfeit your rights due to being late.
Contacting a Lawyer Today
When you are injured or become ill on the job, you are entitled to a workers’ compensation claim. If you’re wondering whether your situation qualifies you for this benefit, contact a workers’ comp lawyer, like a workers compensation Attorneys in Milwaukee, WI, today to learn more.
Thank you to Hickey & Turim SC for their input into personal injury law.
