Can Worker Claim Compensation for Non-Work Related Injuries?

Most people are aware that worker’s compensation insurance covers workplace injuries received while carrying out regular job tasks. Such damages include falling off a ladder at the workplace or slips in the warehouse. These common workplace injuries are protected under worker’s compensation. What about injuries that an employee sustains off the premises of the employer?

Do any of these occurrences fall under worker’s compensation? Read on to find out more.

Injured Outside of Work – Will it be covered?

The definition of what is covered under worker’s compensation is governed by state legislation. Taking care of actual workplace accidents, even those brought on by negligent employees is the primary goal of worker’s compensation insurance. It shields employees against several risks, such as short- and long-term ailments. An employee will eventually heal from a short-term condition, such as a broken arm or damaged ankle. The long-term condition may take more time to recover.

Circumstances That Allow for Worker’s Compensation

Here are a few scenarios where worker’s compensation might cover an injured employee:

Business events

Conventions, Christmas parties, and picnics are activities that some companies throw for their employees. Some jurisdictions will treat an injury sustained at such a gathering as a work-related injury and offer worker’s compensation coverage, but state laws differ significantly. Questions like, “Was the event sponsored by the company?” or “Were employees expected to attend?” could influence whether or not compensation is given.

Travel for Business

Worker’s compensation may pay for injuries sustained while traveling for business. It might be deemed a work-related activity covered by worker’s compensation insurance if the employee was hurt while attending a business conference. Most business travel is regarded as remunerable because, according to the prevailing argument, an employee wouldn’t be on the road if not for their employment. However, the rules for worker’s compensation for accidents suffered by employees while on business trips out of town can be a little confusing. To discover what is included and what is not, review the guidelines.

Employer-controlled Areas

Sidewalks, pathways, and parking lots are where workers are injured most frequently away from the workplace. Worker’s compensation insurance would probably give coverage if the company pays a third party to manage them, own the areas wholly, or pay taxes on them.

Options When Not Covered By Worker’s Comp

Employees who have an injury outside the course and scope of their employment and are unable to work while they recover may be eligible for short-term disability benefits or long-term disability benefits. The Family Medical Leave Act provides 12 weeks of unpaid leave. Additionally, an employee may take advantage of paid or sick leave while getting well or receiving medical attention.

The Bottom Line

Worker’s compensation covers accidental injuries sustained while working. Some employers can provide substitute responsibilities while the employee heals.

Need Insurance to Cover Your Worker’s Compensation? Contact Isu Wissink!

Do you have any reservations about your worker’s compensation coverage? To find out more about how worker’s compensation insurance works, contact us at ISU Wissink Agency. Our insurance professionals can assist in developing a new, specifically tailored insurance policy to meet your needs.