Injuries Covered Under Workers’ Compensation
When it comes to understanding workers’ compensation, one of the primary concerns individuals often have revolves around the types of injuries that are covered. Trying to maneuver through these nuances can be a challenge, but with the right legal guidance you can go through the claims process much more efficiently.
What injuries qualify for workers’ compensation?
The majority of injuries sustained while a person is performing their job duties or during the course of their employment qualify for workers’ compensation. This includes everything from slip and fall accidents at the workplace to injuries resulting from using machinery or tools. A workers compensation attorney like one from Rispoli & Borneo P.C. can explain how the injury needs to be related to the job and not tied to a pre-existing condition.
Are stress and psychological injuries covered?
It is common for stress and mental issues that are connected to the injury to be covered under workers’ compensation. However, these types of claims can be more complex to prove. It’s crucial to have documentation, such as medical records or therapist notes, to establish a direct link between the workplace incident or conditions and the psychological distress.
How are repetitive motion injuries handled?
Repetitive motion injuries, often known as repetitive strain injuries, are conditions developed over time due to repeated actions or postures in the workplace. One common example of a repetitive injury is carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries are generally covered under workers’ compensation as long as there’s a clear connection between the repeated action and the injury, and it can be shown that the job directly caused or aggravated the condition.
What if I’m injured during a work-related travel or event?
If you’re injured during work-related travel, a company event, or even a training session, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. It is crucial that the activity or occasion should have a direct connection to your employment. For instance, if you’re attending a work conference and trip in the hotel, the injury may be covered. However, if you deviate from the work-related activity for personal reasons and sustain an injury, it might not qualify.
Are there any injuries that are generally not covered?
While workers’ compensation aims to cover a broad range of work-related injuries, there are exceptions. Injuries sustained during a lunch break, while commuting to or from work, or due to horseplay or violation of company policies may not be covered. Moreover, if an employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the injury occurs, the claim may be denied.
Understanding the intricacies of what injuries are covered under workers’ compensation can be a daunting task. If you find yourself unsure or overwhelmed by the process, seeking professional guidance can be invaluable. Should you have further questions or need assistance with a claim, don’t hesitate to reach out. Having a workers compensation attorney on your side can make all the difference in ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the benefits you deserve. Do not wait to see a lawyer to discuss your workers compensation claim now.