What You Shouldn’t Believe About Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers Compensation

No one expects to get hurt on the job, but it does happen. Work accidents can occur in just about any field, from construction sites to offices. That is why employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. If you got injured at work, you may be eligible for compensation for your medical bills and lost wages.

Here are a few common myths about workers’ compensation claims that you should not believe.

If I Have Good Health Insurance, Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim Isn’t Necessary

Having a good health insurance policy is certainly a positive. However, that does not mean you should file a workers’ compensation claim. Your health insurance policy may still not cover all the medical expenses that resulted from your work accident. That means you are on the hook for the remaining costs. Workers’ compensation, on the other hand, pays for the full cost of necessary medical treatment, including surgery, medication and physical therapy.

If the Accident Was My Fault, I Can’t Qualify for Workers’ Compensation Benefits

This is one of the most common myths the legal professionals at Therman Law Offices, LTD hear. The reality is that fault is not a factor considered in workers’ compensation cases. If you got hurt at work because you were not paying attention, you may still be eligible for benefits. However, if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the accident occurred, you are no longer entitled to receive benefits.

Workers’ Compensation Only Covers Severe Injuries

Many people still have a preconceived notion that workers’ compensation only covers serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. However, it can cover more minor injuries as well. For example, if you developed carpal tunnel syndrome at your office job, you can still qualify for benefits.

My Employer Can Fire Me for Filing for Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Unfortunately, some workers shy away from filing a workers’ compensation claim after getting injured because they think their employer will fire them. However, the law prohibits employers from terminating their employees for filing for workers’ compensation. If your employer tries to fire you or retaliate against you in any way, you should speak to a workers’ compensation lawyer.

I Can Only Get Benefits If I Was Injured on the Job Site

False. You do not actually have to get hurt on the job site to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. As long as you were performing job duties when the accident occurred, you may still receive workers’ compensation benefits. For instance, if you are required to drive a vehicle for your job and get into a car accident, you can still file a workers’ compensation claim. If another driver was responsible for the car accident, you may also file a third-party lawsuit against that driver and receive additional compensation.

If you were injured at work, you should schedule a consultation with a compensation lawyer today to discuss your case in detail.