Missouri’s Governor Mike Parson implemented an emergency rule providing workers’ compensation benefits to first responders who contract the virus.
Were you exposed to COVID-19 while you were on the job in St. Louis? Hopefully, you have started the recovery process, or perhaps you’re already back on your feet. Either way, you may be wondering what to do next—and that is normal.
Thousands of Americans are in the same situation after testing positive for the coronavirus. Many have taken legal action for remediation; and across the country, numerous employee lawsuits have been filed. While it is hard to predict what your outcome will be, it is safe to say these times are unprecedented for everyone.
Before 2020, coronavirus compensation wasn’t on anybody’s radar. However today, work injury attorneys are bringing cases forward and paving the way for other essential workers who were exposed to the virus while at work.
To protect essential front-line workers and first responders, Missouri’s Governor Mike Parson implemented an emergency rule providing workers’ compensation benefits to first responders who contract the virus. Many other states passed a similar statute that reverses the burden of proof in COVID-19 claims.
Here’s what you should consider if you’re not sure if you qualify for a workers’ compensation claim.
Can I Get Workers Compensation for COVID-19 in St. Louis?
Workers’ compensation is awarded to those who sustained an injury while they were in the workplace. While typically these cases involve conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, accidents involving assembly lines or machinery, or toxic exposure, it may be possible to get workers compensation benefits for COVID-19.
Allegations within the lawsuits that have already been filed by others pin their arguments on a wide range of negligent actions, but they mostly fall within these three main categories:
- Employers failed to effectively implement preventive measures, such as distancing rules or hygiene standards.
- Employers failed to give you proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Employers didn’t notify you in a timely manner that a co-worker tested positive for COVID-19.
- Employers implemented standards, but sanitation procedures remained insufficient to stop the spread.
Whether or not you have observed any of these conditions in the workplace, it’s important that you discuss your claim with an experiened workers compensation attorney to ensure you receive the financial compensation that you are legally entitled to.
Workers’ Compensation for COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has placed many people in danger, but no one has placed themselves at more risk than essential workers and first responders. If you were exposed and contracted the virus on the job, there are paths you can take toward receiving the financial compensation you need and deserve. Due to the legal ambiguity regarding COVID-19, speaking with a workers’ compensation lawyer is certainly in your best interest, and will give you the ability to focus on your health.