If you were injured at your place of work, you may be entitled to seek worker’s compensation. However, each state handles worker’s compensation differently, and there are things you need to understand if you are looking to file for worker’s compensation benefits in the state of Oregon.
Are You Covered?
Not every worker in Oregon is eligible for worker’s compensation. For instance, federal workers are exempt, as are maritime workers, domestic workers, and home service workers. Family-owned businesses that do not hire beyond the family may also be exempt as may the principals of a company. Leased, contracted, or temporary workers may be covered under policies that do not apply to regular employees. If you want to know about your coverage, contact a lawyer.
You also need to make sure you are filing the claim in a timely manner. In Oregon, various timelines apply to when you must report your injury to your employer and file the necessary forms to commence your claim. These timelines are very short and so, often, time is of the essence. Failure to comply with these time limits could result in your claim being denied.
What Injuries Count?
Various injuries and damages can make one eligible for worker’s compensation. They include physical injuries, such as slip-and-fall accidents, harm caused by machinery, and stress or overexertion. Someone can also qualify if their work made them ill, such as through exposure to harmful substances or allergens. Some injuries are immediate and traumatic; others take type to develop and show symptoms.
What Benefits Can Be Received?
Worker’s compensation provides a spectrum of benefits that you may to be able to recover, as well as money lost through medical expenses and being unable to work for a time. Possible benefits include:
- The recovery of lost wages.
- Care costs, medical expenses, and disability payments.
- Funeral payments.
Who Can Help You?
Sometimes, an insurance company refuses to accept a claim or pay employees the proper amount for worker’s compensation. If this happens, you do not have to suffer the injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and trauma alone. You can turn to Shlesinger & deVilleneuve for help with getting the worker’s compensation you deserve. Contact us today.
