Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that benefits employees who have been injured on the job. Some work-related illnesses can be covered by workman’s comp as well depending on the circumstances and the type of illness. Every state regulates workman’s comp differently, so although particular laws may be true in one state, that does not mean that it stands in another. Dealing with a worker’s comp claim can be a difficult task so it is important to understand how worker’s comp works and what you need to do if you are injured on the job. There are several things that you should know that are important when filing for workman’s compensation in Blackfoot, Idaho.
Do I Have To Be A Full-Time Employee To Receive Benefits?
To be eligible for workman’s compensation, you have to be employed by a company that has, or should have worker’s comp insurance. Seasonal or part-time employees are eligible to receive benefits. However, independent contractors, consultants, or free-lance employees aren’t technically considered “employed” by that company. For casual or temporary hires, your eligibility depends on how the employer treats you. If you are paid as an employee, you would be considered an employee. If you are paid as if you are a contracted employee, you probably will not be eligible. This circumstance is one in which a workman’s compensation lawyer, like Baker Harris Law, should be involved to make sure that you receive any benefits that you are entitled to.
Do I Have To Be At Work To Receive Benefits?
The injury does not have to happen at the employers work site. If you are on the clock and considered “working” at the time of the injury, it is considered a job-related injury. To prove that your workman’s compensation is entitled to pay out benefits, you have to prove that the injury happened while you were working and that you were not under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. There are many steps to follow to make sure that all of the necessary requirements are taken care of prior to filing your claim. These steps include reporting the accident to your employer in a specific amount of time and seeking medical attention (depending on your employer you may need to see a provider of their choice so be sure to check with them).
Does Workman’s Comp Cover Only Medical Bills?
Workman’s comp insurance will provide benefits for medical expenses related to the injury. Hospital and doctor visits for diagnosis and treatment, including prescription medications, can be covered. Workman’s compensation can also provide disability benefits for time missed from work while you are being treated. This is typically a portion of your regular wages.
Does Workman’s Comp Provide Benefits If The Incident Was My Fault?
Workman’s compensation insurance does not require proof of who was at fault. If you mishandle a tool or piece of equipment, the injury is still considered work-related. The same applies if you step wrong on the stairs and are injured from the fall. Workman’s compensation will only deny benefits if the injury was self-inflicted or the result of the use of drugs or alcohol.
If you have been injured on the job, don’t wait to reach out for help. Baker Harris Law in Blackfoot has experienced lawyers who know the specific laws of the state and know what you must do in order to receive workman’s compensation benefits that you are entitled to. After an accident, immediately file a report with your employer – even if an injury has not shown. In many cases, an injury may not present itself until days following the accident, so do not hesitate to file a report for seemingly minor accidents. It may help you in the future.
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