Just because you were at work doesn't mean it's a workers' compensation injury
In order to get workers’ compensation, you not only have to be injured while on the job, but your injury must be related to your job. In other words, just because you were at work when the injury happened doesn’t mean you’re covered.
If you are just as likely to get the injury elsewhere, then you may be denied benefits. You need to prove that your job put you at an increased risk for the type of injury you suffered. Here are three examples:
Heart attack. If you can’t prove that your job made it more likely that you had a heart attack – that the job contributed to the heart attack – then you will probably be denied benefits. If you can show that your job is extremely strenuous and puts you at an increased risk, then benefits would be more likely.
Insect bite. Although usually harmless, some bites can be poisonous. If you get bit by a spider in your office job, it’s probably not a workers’ comp claim because you’re just as likely to get bit by a spider at home or anywhere else. However, if you are a park ranger, it’s arguable that your job put you at an increased risk -- compared to the general public – for insect bites, and therefore an injury would likely be covered.
Standing. If your injury was caused by the fact that you’re on your feet all day, the law is not on your side. The simple act of standing does not put you at an increased risk. However, if you were required to do excessive walking or stand on an uneven surface or wear harmful shoes, you may have a claim.
Every case is different, so don’t decide based on this list that you do or do not have a claim. Give us a call for a free consultation.
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
