If you get hurt at work, Minnesota law requires most employers to have workers’ compensation coverage, or have private insurance. That means that you should not have to worry about loss of income or employment. However, you first need to qualify before you can receive benefits. Here is what you need to know.
What Qualifies?
If you are injured on or because of your job, you may qualify to make a workers’ compensation claim. This can include getting sick due to your job, having a medical condition get worse or aggravated because of your job, or an injury that does not heal properly or is exasperated because of work. If your situation meets any of these conditions, then you are probably eligible to make a claim.
Who Can Qualify?
Anyone who works for an employer, including those who are not paid, such as interns, qualifies as an employee under Minnesota law. Anyone who is considered an employee is eligible to be covered by workers’ compensation. It does not matter if you are paid hourly or by salary, or if you are in a union. As long as you work for someone, you are eligible.
Who Does Not Qualify?
There are some categories of workers who do not qualify for coverage. Freelancers and independent contractors, for instance, are not eligible. Employees of federal agencies, such as postal and railroad workers, are covered under programs for federal workers, and thus would not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
What if You Are Not Sure?
Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complicated and frustrating, so getting the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer is never a bad idea. There are certainly some warning signs that you are not getting the coverage you deserve. These include not getting scheduled for an independent medical exam, not getting wage-loss benefits, being denied surgery, or having certain medical expenses not being paid, among other things. If you for any reason feel that you are not getting the benefits to which you think you should be entitled, then it is important to consult with an attorney. Make sure that your rights and benefits are protected. If you or someone you know has been the victim of an accident and are uncertain of your rights, the Minnesota workers’ compensation lawyers at Beedem Law can help you establish the benefits in which you have a legal right. Set up a FREE consultation by contacting us online or by calling 612-305-1300.