Workers’ Compensation Claims: What Employees Should Know

Employees do not usually understand how workers’ compensation protects them when they suffer a workplace injury, but not every injury takes place at the worksite. Workers’ compensation protection can apply in other locations that people may not expect.

Injuries on Client’s Property

Delivery drivers and salespeople often spend as much time visiting clients as they do at their employer’s worksite. An injury at one of these sites while performing the duties of their job can make it possible for an employee to qualify for a workers’ compensation claim as well as a personal injury claim against the insurance company of the client.

Accident When Running Errands

Employees sent out to run errands for the company may have workers’ compensation coverage if an accident occurs. A claim will depend on exactly what the employee was doing when the injury occurred.

Employees, for example, will usually have a successful claim if they injured their back while picking up business supplies.

Crashes During a Commute

Daily commutes usually take place off-the-clock and are not the responsibility of an employer. However, employees like a home care nurse or a salesperson who travels constantly during their shift may have workers’ compensation coverage when on the road. On-call workers who receive payment from the moment they receive a call to come to work may also have coverage.

Hurt at Recreational Gathering

Employer-sponsored picnics or team bonding events could also result in a workers’ compensation claim if someone becomes injured.

Compensation in these instances is not a guarantee. How the employee became injured and where the accident took place could affect the claim. Anyone who experiences an accident at an event like this should contact our office to speak to a workers’ compensation attorney if their employer refuses to allow them to file a claim.

The success of workers’ compensation claims for accidents that happen somewhere besides the normal workplace can depend on the details. Employers may try to complicate a claim, but that does not mean the case is not valid. At Walz Law Office, we can review your claim and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.