Workers’ compensation is a system designed for the benefit of workers who become ill or get injured while at work.
Even though it seems like a fairly simple process, there are cases when the workers’ compensation benefits are either limited or denied by the employer or the insurance company. There could be many reasons for this, but the most important reason is the fact that the insurance companies do not want to part with their money, and the employer does not want to see a hike in the insurance premiums.
Kansas City Missouri workers’ compensation lawyers come across several cases in which the insurance company uses an excuse or loophole to limit or deny benefits to the worker. So, it is very important each employee is aware of their rights. They must understand that it is their legal right to receive medical and wage loss benefits in case they get injured at their workplace.
Who Is Covered Under Workers’ Compensation?
In Missouri, every company that employs more than five workers needs to have worker’s compensation insurance. Construction companies should have worker’s compensation coverage irrespective of the number of employees it has. All federal employees are covered under a separate federal workers’ compensation law. Missouri workers compensation law does not cover domestic workers, farm employees, independent contractors, and members of a family business or limited liability company.
When Is a Worker Covered?
Any injury or illness that occurs in the course or scope of employment may be covered under workers’ compensation. If traveling is a part of your job, then the injuries suffered while traveling may also be covered. However, the injuries suffered while traveling to and from work might not be covered. If the accident occurs on business premises even when you are having lunch, the injury would be covered; however, if you get injured when you have gone out for lunch, you will not be covered.
When Is a Worker NOT Covered?
Most work-related injuries and illnesses are covered by workers’ compensation. However, Kansas City Missouri workers’ compensation lawyers inform us that there are certain situations in which you may not be eligible for benefits. Examples of such situations are:
- Self-inflicted injury.
- Psychiatric illness, if it is not a result of the disease or injury caused by work.
- Injury that is a result of age-related deterioration.
- Injury suffered during voluntary recreation at the workplace, for example, while playing soccer at the office picnic.
- Injury when intoxicated, fighting, or during horseplay.
There could be some other similar situations in which the employee might not be eligible for the benefits. If you have suffered an injury at the workplace, and you are not sure whether or not it is covered by workers’ compensation, it is best to seek the assistance of The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (816) 399-3706.
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