If you have suffered a work-related injury or illness, you may be able to obtain workers’ compensation benefits to help cover lost wages and medical expenses. Typically, your employee status, job-related duties, and whether the incident or illness was work-related determines eligibility. However, there are some exceptions. Below, a Chatsworth, GA, workers’ compensation attorney from The Keith Firm explains everything you need to know about the coverage. 

A Guide to Workers’ Comp Benefits

Covered Employment

If you are employed — whether full-time, seasonal, or part-time — you are eligible to collect workers’ compensation benefits. In most cases, the length of employment is not a factor. However, if you are a consultant, freelancer, or independent contractor, you will not be covered. If you are denied benefits based on an inaccurate classification by your employer, consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney is in your best interest.

Is the Injury or Illness Work-Related?

Determining whether an injury or illness is work-related is sometimes challenging. For instance, an employee who breaks their wrist during the annual company softball game would be entitled to file a claim. However, if the same staff member suffered an injury during their morning commute, coverage would be denied.

Fault

Because workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, it does not matter whether you or your employer is to blame for the injury or illness. As such, even if you caused a spill and slip, you may still file a claim for benefits. However, if you were intoxicated at the time of the incident or harmed yourself intentionally, you will likely be denied.

If you need a competent workers’ compensation attorney in Chatsworth, GA, turn to The Keith Firm. Backed by over 40 years of legal experience, attorney Bill Keith focuses on a variety of practice areas, including personal injury, wrongful death, and criminal and family law. Learn more about him and his practice online, or call (706) 695-4511 to schedule your free consultation.