Workers’ compensation laws can be quite complicated. While most states require workers’ compensation insurance to be available, it doesn’t cover all damages. So what exactly can’t it cover?
Duties Performed Outside the Scope of Employment
In order to receive workers’ compensation benefits, you must have been injured in your scope of employment. For example, if you performed a task at your place of work that isn’t listed on your job description, you may not qualify for workers’ compensation insurance.
Extent of Injuries
Workers’ compensation also considers how badly you were injured on the job. If the injury was minor and only required a first aid kit, you won’t receive workers’ compensation insurance. This type of insurance is only for injuries that are serious enough to require extensive treatments.
How Did You Get Hurt?
The way you were hurt at work is also taken into consideration when determining if you are eligible for workers’ compensation or not. For example, if you weren’t following safety regulations and got hurt at work, you wouldn’t be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. You also wouldn’t be able to receive benefits if you were drunk at the time of the accident.
Third-Party Damages
Third-party damages are also taken into account with workers’ compensation. For instance, if you get into an accident on the way from your job and a third-party gets hurt, workers’ compensation won’t take care of the third-party’s damages. If you were driving your own car during the accident, it’s important to talk to a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. The injured third party will likely try to sue you for compensation. An experienced lawyer can ensure your rights are protected.
If you were hurt at work, getting workers’ compensation benefits can be a long and complicated process. It can cause you a lot of stress. That’s why it is a good idea to hire an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to assist you. He or she may review your case at no charge and advise you on the best way to proceed. With a skilled lawyer on your side, you may feel better about the entire situation.
During the initial meeting with a workers’ compensation lawyer Milwaukee WI trusts, he or she may likely ask you several questions about your workplace injury, such as how you suffered the injury. Be sure to answer each question honestly and with as much detail as possible.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Hickey & Turim, SC for their insight into workers’ compensation practice.
