Accidents can happen at any time, including while traveling to or from work. Employees often ask whether they can file a workers’ compensation claim when they get hurt before or after punching their time cards. While every case is different, the information below might help you understand a few situations in which you may or may not be entitled to receive these benefits.

What to Know About Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for an Off-the-Clock Injury

When Off-the-Clock Injuries Are Not Covered

Generally, when employees suffer injuries while traveling to and from their jobs, they do not qualify to receive workers' compensation benefits. This principle is known as the coming-and-going rule and includes errands you might run during the day that are not connected directly to the employer’s work. However, there are a few exceptions to the rule.  

When Off-the-Clock Injuries Are Covered

One exception to the coming-and-going rule is when you’re not at the place where you work regularly but are doing tasks that directly benefit your employer. If you get hurt while commuting back or forth, your injuries are covered by workers’ compensation. For example, if you’re going to Los Angeles to represent the employer at a conference and are hit by a car while on the way to the airport, your workers’ comp claim should be successful. 

Another exception provides coverage when employees run specific errands at their employer’s request, called a special mission. For example, the head of the medical clinic where you work might ask you to pick up a package at the post office on your way back from lunch. If you slip and fall in the postal building lobby after obtaining the item, you have work-related injuries covered by workers’ compensation.   

On or off the clock, employees who suffer injuries while working need advice for their circumstances. The workers’ compensation attorneys at Vincent Criscuolo & Associates of Rochester, NY, offer individualized advice, vigorous advocacy, and an answer to your case questions no matter when you call. Whether your claim is work-related or a personal injury case, this law firm provides knowledge, skill, and compassion. To learn more about injured employees’ rights, visit the website. Call (585) 232-3240 today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.