It’s the season for winter sports, and while some look towards vacation destinations, others are present on the slopes as a regular part of their jobs.
Ski instructors have the patience and know-how to teach just about anyone how to adopt this sport safely. But even so, it doesn’t mean they are safe from harm. Ski instructors often have to work right there on the slop, in very low temperatures, which open them up to a lot of different risks. Additionally, there is also the possibility of one of their pupils making a mistake in which both end up hurt.
Are They Eligable for Workers’ Compensation?
As long as you were employed, and the company has at least 5 employees, you most likely have workers’ comp. The laws do not exclude skiing or other sports instructors from being eligible, so you should have this safety net.
However, if you work as a freelancer, then you are not covered. Freelancers and independent contractors are considered to be ‘self-employed’ in the eyes of the law since they have more freedom than a regular employee. As a result, the firm that hires you for your services does not have to offer you worker’s comp benefits. Instead, you can purchase a policy yourself.
If you’re unsure if you’re covered, you should ask your employer or check your contract.
What If You’re Not Covered?
If you fall under a category that’s excluded from workers’ comp laws, or your employer is not legally obliged to offer these benefits, there may be other options for covering your medical costs. For instance, some of the medical expenses may be covered through your health insurance under some circumstances.
Health insurance typically does not extend to work-related injuries, but if you are a volunteer and not ‘working’ in a legal sense, it may be possible to cover these costs.
Additionally, you could also file a personal injury claim against the person who caused you harm, if that is the case. However, in these cases, you’ll most likely have to show that the other person was negligent, such as skiing while intoxicated. Or, if it’s your employer, that they did not provide acceptable working conditions, like forcing you to work long hours in the cold without breaks. If you are just the victim of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, then the odds aren’t exactly in your favor.
Protect Your Right to Compensation
Don’t assume worker’s compensation doesn’t apply to you. If you get injured at your job, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation. Reach out to a St. Louis workers compensation lawyer to find out what your next steps should be.
Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4300 for a FREE consultation.