In 2023, the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation in Pennsylvania managed over $2.9 billion for injured workers. This includes both onsite employees and remote workers. The process of filing a claim for remote job injuries is usually more complicated. You need experienced workers’ compensation attorneys to guide you through the legal process.
What Is Remote Worker Injury Compensation?
Workers’ compensation offers partial wages to employees. It also covers medical bills for those injured on the job. In case of a remote work injury, you are also eligible for such compensation. However, the injury needs to happen while performing job-related tasks.
The concept of remote work is still very new. The laws and regulations regarding this type of work are still quite fresh. Many companies encourage safety checks for their work-from-home employees. This may help reduce the chances of work-related injuries. However, you may still sustain an injury while working remotely. Consider hiring a workers’ compensation attorney when you get injured on the job.
What Remote Employees Are Covered Under Workers’ Compensation?
The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act (1915) applies to most employees except a few. Independent contractors do not always qualify for these benefits. They can claim the benefits only if they are misclassified as freelancers. A company can call an individual a freelancer or contractor, but they might still be an employee. In such cases, they may still be eligible for compensation.
Employees in certain jobs may not qualify for workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania. They include certain corporate officers of nonprofits, agricultural workers, and executive officers of for-profit organizations. However, in certain situations, workers in these categories might also qualify for coverage.
How You Can Prove Your Remote Job Injury Is Work-Related?
It can be difficult to prove an injury is work-related as a remote worker. A workers’ compensation attorney can simplify this process. You just need proper evidence and documentation.
- Inform your employer immediately about the injury. Also, report how you got injured while performing job-related tasks.
- Get medical attention. Obtain a medical report that can link your injury to your work-related activities.
- Collect evidence of the injury and where the incident occurred. Video recordings and photographs can be useful.
- Keep a detailed record of your job-related activities. Also, note the onset of your symptoms.
- Hire a qualified and experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Pennsylvania. They can help you build a strong case.
It will be a lot easier to establish the connection between your remote job and the injury you sustained. Just remember to carry out the measures mentioned above.
How to Claim Workers’ Compensation While Working Remotely?
If you sustain an injury while working from home office, there are several crucial steps to keep in mind.
1. Get Medical Attention
After a work injury at the home office, it is important to seek medical attention. This step ensures proper treatment while providing you with proof of injury. When you visit the healthcare practitioner, tell them you were hurt doing your job. Also, give them the whole picture of how your job led to the accident. This will help them create a proper report.
2. Report Injury to Your Employer
Next, you should inform your employer about the injury. This step is not mandatory. However, it is a good idea to report the incident as soon as possible. The law requires you to report your injury within the first 120 days.
3. Follow the Doctor’s Recommendations
You must continue to follow your doctor’s recommendations. It will limit the opportunities for the insurance company to deny your claim. If you do not follow your doctor’s recommendations, the insurer may use this against you.
4. Consult an Attorney
It is recommended that you work with a worker’s compensation lawyer. They will help you file your claim and secure the compensation you deserve. They can also review the insurance company’s settlement proposal to see if it is a fair offer. If the insurer denies your claim, they can also challenge the decision.
Conclusion
Filing a workers’ compensation claim for a remote job injury may seem challenging. However, it is possible to secure well-deserved compensation if you have proper evidence. Having a workers’ compensation attorney on your side is also crucial. It increases your chances of successfully securing your benefits.
