Accidents happen everyday but it is an employer’s responsibility to provide a safe work environment for employees and minimize the occurrence of on-the-job injuries. Injured employees used to have to take their employers to court to seek just compensation for on-the-job injuries.
Virginia enacted workers compensation laws just over a century ago to protect workers from unnecessary injuries and help ensure they get adequate medical attention. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always ensure claimants get the financial compensation they deserve after an injury at work but partnering with the right Richmond workers compensation lawyer can. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements for workers compensation in Richmond.
An Overview of Richmond Workers Compensation
To file a workers compensation claim or work with a Richmond workers compensation lawyer in Virginia, certain criteria must first be met. One must first be an employee, not an independent contractor and they should work for an employer with 3 or more employees.
Under Virginia law, employers with 2 regular employees or less are not required to carry workers compensation insurance. The injury must also occur on the job in the normal course of duties. For example, an employee may not file a workers compensation claim after being in an automobile accident on the way to work.
Workers Compensation Claims in Virginia
Workers compensation insurance covers any on the job injury which requires medical attention. It is meant to help ensure injured employees get adequate medical attention as well as compensation for last wages but there are program requirements which must be met. For instance, the injury must be reported to an immediate supervisor within 30 days of occurring.
It is also important to file a claim with the Virginia Workers Compensation Commission (WCC) within the state statute of limitations. In Virginia, the claim must be filed within 2 years of the date of the accident. Sometimes, symptoms don’t manifest immediately but it’s important to file a claim as soon as they do.
The Trade-Off
Filing a workers compensation claim in Virginia can ensure injured workers have access to adequate medical care and financial compensation to cover a portion of lost wages. In exchange for filing a workers compensation claim, injured employees forfeit the right to sue the employer in the future. In this way workers compensation laws protect both employers and employees.
Partner with a Richmond Workers Compensation Lawyer
If you must file a workers compensation claim in Virginia, it helps to partner with a Richmond workers compensation lawyer. Claims can be denied for many reasons including incomplete paperwork or a lack of documentation. Working with a Richmond workers compensation lawyer gives you the very best chance of getting your claim approved.
If your claim has already been denied, a skilled Richmond workers compensation lawyer may be able to get the decision reconsidered on appeal. Each case is unique and will be subject to Virginia workers compensation laws. An exceptional Richmond workers compensation attorney can help you navigate the complex waters of the legal system and get the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries.
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