Kentucky has strict workers’ compensation insurance requirements. If an employee gets hurt on the job, they might qualify for this supplementary income. However, not every workplace accident might qualify for a successful claim. How do employees know when to ask for more information about their workers’ comp?
Workers’ compensation is not an optional program for most Kentucky employers. Employees should make an effort to understand what can qualify as a viable claim. Injuries might arise from multiple situations, after all.
Workers’ Comp in a Nutshell
Workers’ comp serves as a form of supplementary income for those who get hurt while at work.
It evolves from the fact that work-related injuries might lead to incapacitation, missed work, lost salaries and medical bills. As a result, these damages might create a financial strain on the injured person. Because employees might get hurt in the normal course of work, many states recognize their right to help.
A workers’ comp claim obligates a business to pay for an employee’s injury losses. In most cases, the employer and employee can settle without having to face litigation. Therefore, both the business and employee can enjoy this protection. Almost all Kentucky businesses with one or more employees have to provide protection.
When Can Employees Qualify for Coverage
Nearly any workplace injury can lead to a workers’ compensation claim.
- Injuries from continuous exposure to risks often qualify for protection. For example, years of working with chemicals might lead to injuries or illnesses.
- If an employee gets hurt in a car accident while on business, many rules require coverage.
- Repetitive motion injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome, likely qualify for protection.
- Injuries sustained in the normal course of work, like from operating equipment, likely have protection.
- If someone gets hurt in the workplace, like from a fall in the break room, they often can file a workers’ comp claim.
However, not all workplace injuries qualify for coverage. For example, if you get hurt while out of the office on your lunch break, you might not qualify for protection. Other workers’ comp laws don’t cover car accident injuries sustained during morning or evening commutes.
Your workers’ compensation claims will likely require an investigation to determine your eligibility. Therefore, approach your claim as a unique situation. The above scenarios may or may not have coverage when it comes to your individual case. Ask your employer for more information if you feel the need to file a claim.
Also Read: Enforcing Safety Gear Requirements in Your Business