If you are injured on the job, you might be wondering how long you must work for an employer before you are eligible for workers’ compensation. If you are employed by the company, then you are covered. As an example, you are hired by a delivery service and then you are involved in a trucking accident your first day on the job. You will be covered by workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation insurance covers of all of business’s employees from the moment they start employment. Workers’ Compensation Benefits for New Employees If you are hurt at work as a new employee, you are eligible for the standard workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation includes medical benefits, which cover the costs of your medical care for your illness or injury, plus it also covers a portion of your lost wages. You usually receive about two-thirds your regular pay while you are unable to work because of your work-related condition. You do have to prove that your condition was caused by your work incident, so you will need to keep all evidence and documentation that you can throughout the process. The claims process is very detailed and requires extensive evidence. Pursuing a Workers’ Compensation Claim You will need to notify your employer right away of your injury. You will have to seek medical care right away. Your employer will have an approved list of workers’ compensation medical providers. You should choose a provider from that list to be covered by workers’ compensation. You will need to prepare a statement detailing the accident and how you were injured. This statement will need to be included in the accident report that your employer must complete for you to pursue a workers’ compensation claim. Make sure any witnesses give statements regarding what they saw as well. Maintain documentation to show your injuries and how you were injured. Maintaining Documentation for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim You will need to keep copies of any medical records. Keep documentation showing missed work and lost wages. Keep copies of any physician orders saying you are unable to work or must work shorter shifts. Take photos of any visible injuries. Keep a copy of the accident report. Maintain notes while the incident is fresh in your memory. Keep a copy of the statement you provide your employer and keep copies of statements from any witnesses. All these records will help support your claim. Consult with a Workers’ Compensation Attorney If you have been hurt while working, regardless of how long you have been on the job, you can file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. You should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer will be able to help you understand how long you must work before you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to get your case reviewed by an attorney in your state. Additional Resources Hiring an Attorney for Workers' Compensation Can My Workers’ Comp Settlement Pay My Medical Bills?
