Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees who are injured in the course of employment. In other words, it provides financial compensation to employees who are injured on the job. Although most employees are generally familiar with the concept of a workers’ compensation claim, there are several misconceptions about workers’ compensation benefits. In this article, we examine some common workers’ compensation myths.
Myth #1: You Must Be Doing Your Job When You Get Injured
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be doing your job when you suffer an injury to be eligible for workers’ compensation. Rather, you must be injured in the course of your employment, and this can include non-job-related activities.
Myth #2: You Must Be at a Jobsite When You Get Injured
You don’t have to be at your jobsite when you are injured to obtain workers’ compensation. In fact, auto accidents make up a large percentage of workers’ compensation claims, and they also happen to be the leading cause of work-related deaths. Although commuting isn’t generally considered within the scope of employment, if your job involves driving, then injuries suffered in an accident while driving for work may be eligible for workers’ compensation.
Myth #3: Workers Compensation is the Only Option for Injured Employees
Although workers’ compensation is the primary means of recovery for work-related injuries, it is not your only option when it comes to obtaining financial compensation for your losses. Under certain circumstances, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for injuries suffered at work.
Myth #4: Filing for Workers’ Compensation Can Get You Fired
Many employees are reluctant to file for workers’ compensation out of fear of employer retaliation. However, it is illegal for an employer to fire an employee who exercises his or her legal right to file for workers’ compensation benefits. Therefore, if you’ve been injured on the job, you shouldn’t let fear of retaliation stop you from filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Myth #5: You Don’t Need an Attorney to File for Workers’ Compensation
Although it is technically true that you aren’t legally required to hire an attorney to file a workers’ compensation claim, it is in your best interests to do so. The workers’ compensation process is complicated. Therefore, before you file a workers’ compensation claim, you should consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured at work, you should contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Foote, Mielke, Chavez & O’Neil, LLC, our workers’ compensation attorneys are here for you. When you come to us for help with your workers’ compensation claim, we will do everything in our power to ensure that you receive full compensation for your injuries. Please contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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