Were you in an accident while at your workplace? Are you suffering from medical conditions that are limiting your ability to continue working? You may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. After applying for workers’ comp, you may receive medical coverage and lost wage payments. These benefits can help you recover from your injuries and continue providing for your family.
There are several requirements that you need to meet to be eligible for workers’ comp benefits. For example, you will need to report your injuries to your employer and follow the report by making a workers’ comp claim. You may also be required to seek medical help to prove your injuries and need for recovery. However, unlike other kinds of injury claims, you do not have to prove who caused your injuries.
That is because worker’s comp is a no-fault system. Here is what you should know:
How fault does not affect benefits
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, which means that it does not matter who caused your injuries when applying for benefits. For example, you may have injured yourself in an accident while working with machinery. Or, a co-worker or employer may have made a mistake that led to your injuries.
When your injuries may not be eligible for benefits
There is the possibility that you are not eligible for benefits despite the no-fault system, for example, if you were drinking alcohol or using substances that directly resulted in your injuries. Or, if you instigated a fight with a co-worker and you suffered injuries, you may not receive benefits.
It is important to understand when you are and are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Seeking legal guidance can help you as you apply for medical coverage and lost wages.