The worker’s compensation program is designed to safeguard the interests of injured workers and to compensate them if they are injured at the workplace.
All injuries occurring “out of the course of employment” may be covered under the worker’s compensation system. However, the type of injuries covered under worker’s compensation may differ from state to state. It is important that workers understand which injuries are covered under worker’s compensation and which are not. St Louis work accident lawyers have compiled a list of injuries that are covered under workers compensation:
Injuries Arising From Work Conditions
Any injury that occurs while the worker is performing their duty at the workplace qualifies for worker’s compensation. Also, the disease or injury that occurs because of the conditions at the workplace also qualifies for the worker’s compensation. However, there might be some exceptions to the case, which we will discuss in the next points.
Cumulative Injuries and Events
Worker’s compensation does not only cover one-time accident injuries, but also cumulative injuries that a worker may have acquired as a result of prolonged exposure to a chemical, or by working in a particular manner for extended hours. Common examples of such compensation claims are respiratory diseases and carpal tunnel syndrome. St Louis worker’s compensation lawyers also refer to these injuries as occupational diseases, repetitive stress injuries, and cumulative trauma injuries.
Injuries Suffered When Performing Duty Outside the Office
If a worker suffers injuries outside of his office, he can still be eligible for worker’s compensation claims. According to St. Louis work accident lawyers, if a worker gets injured outside of his or her office while acting in the “course and scope” of employment, the injuries will be covered under workers’ compensation.
Mental Health Conditions
Just like physical diseases, mental health conditions too can be occupational diseases. Conditions that develop over time, such as severe anxiety or depression, and psychiatric injury from a singular event such as post traumatic stress are covered under worker’s compensation.
Injuries That Are Not Covered
If a worker suffers a minor cut, bruise, or headache that gets healed with first aid treatment, he is not entitled to worker’s compensation. However, if these conditions are a result of chemical exposure, then he can claim worker’s compensation. Injuries suffered while commuting, when a worker is out for lunch, or while fighting or horseplay are not covered by worker’s compensation. In some cases, the worker might not be able to fully understand if their condition qualifies for worker’s compensation or not. A medical examination can suggest whether or not the disease or injury is a result of the conditions at the workplace.
If the worker feels that they deserve worker’s compensation, but the employer denies it, it is in the best interest of the worker to consult The Law Firm of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300 and discuss the legal options. We will assess your case and help get you the rightful compensation that you deserve.
Photo credit: PEO, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives via Flickr