Workplace Injuries – Who Can File a Claim?

Anyone injured in the workplace with access to workers' compensation through their employer or an insurance provider can file a claim for monetary damages (in some instances, such as with rail employees, claims must be filed through the Federal Employers Liability Act). Fault does not need to be determined to file a workers' compensation claim. The purpose of workers' compensation coverage is to provide injured workers with compensation for medical costs, rehabilitation costs, and loss of wages without the need for legal action and regardless of who was responsible for the injury. If you have suffered an injury at the workplace, and it is severe enough to require medical attention or prohibits you from completing your work obligations, you can file a workers' compensation claim.

If you have been injured on the job or suffered a work-related illness, it is important to file a claim for workers' compensation as soon as possible after the incident occurs or the illness begins. If you fail to file a workers' compensation claim in a timely manner, it can jeopardize your ability to obtain the compensation that you deserve. If the time period between the date the incident occurred and the date the claim was filed is significant, it may prompt an investigation into the legitimacy of the claim. It is also important to note that, in some cases, your eligibility to file a workers' compensation claim may be permanently waived if the statute of limitations expires.

We urge you to seek legal counsel if you have any questions regarding a workers' compensation claim or your rights under the law. If your employer provides workers' compensation coverage or you have an insurance provider who handles workers' compensation claims, you are entitled to financial compensation in the event of a workplace injury. If, for any reason, your claim for compensation is denied or contested, you should seek the assistance of a qualified and experienced attorney. If you would like to speak with an attorney serving your area, please use our extensive directory to locate a lawyer near you.