Workers’ compensation is an important benefit that helps injured workers maintain some stability in their lives after an on-the-job injury or illness leaves them sidelines. However, this insurance also covers part-time and temporary employees injured on the job.
Here is what to know if you are in this category:
The benefits to which you are entitled
Part-time or temporary workers are entitled to the same benefits as injured full-time ones. These include medical care, temporary disability benefits and permanent disability benefits. Those whose date of injury is 2004 or later may also be eligible for supplemental job displacement benefits.
However, you must be classified as either a part-time or temp worker, not an independent contractor or freelance employee.
Steps to follow when filing a claim
If you are injured as a part-time or temporary worker, seeking medical attention from your predesignated doctor or a physician from your employer’s medical provider network(MPN) is crucial.
Immediate medical attention prevents the injury from worsening and ensures you have documentation to strengthen your claim. After receiving treatment, formally report the injury by filing a claim form and giving it to your employer in person or by mail. It’s vital to keep a copy for your records.
You have 30 days to report your injury. After that, you may lose your rights to claim compensation. If you sustain an injury or illness that developed over time, report it as soon as you learn or believe your work duties caused it.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim as a part-time or temporary employee is, in most cases, similar to the experience of full-time employees. If you encounter resistance to your claim because of your temporary or part-time status, it may be time to seek legal assistance.
