Injured victims who are seeking workers’ compensation benefits in Las Vegas must show that their injury or illness is work-related in order to recover those benefits. When is an injury work-related? If you were injured or suffered an illness as a result of a job you were performing for the benefit of your employer, you can receive workers’ compensation benefits as long as you meet other eligibility requirements. Although you may think that this is a straightforward issue, there are several gray areas that could make these laws complex and challenging to understand.
Some injuries are considered work-related and others are not. For example, if you are injured at a company sponsored or company held event, such as a softball game or a picnic, you may be able to claim workers’ compensation benefits. However, if your injury occurs while you are commuting to or from work or when you are outside on your lunch break, then you may not be covered. If you are traveling during the course of your work day, then you will likely be covered.
Work-related injuries
If you are injured while performing your job duties, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. This includes injuries that occur on the job site, while operating machinery or equipment, or while performing any other job-related activity.
Repetitive stress injuries
Repetitive stress injuries are injuries that occur over time as a result of repetitive motion or overuse of a particular body part. This can include injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis. These injuries can be caused by a wide range of jobs, including those that involve typing, assembly line work, or heavy lifting.
Occupational illnesses
Workers may develop illnesses as a result of exposure to hazardous substances or conditions in the workplace. These illnesses can include respiratory illnesses, skin conditions, or hearing loss. If you can prove that your illness was caused by exposure to hazardous substances or conditions in the workplace, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Slip and fall injuries
Slip and fall injuries can occur in any workplace and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as wet or slippery floors, inadequate lighting, or obstacles in walkways. If you are injured as a result of a slip and fall on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Mental health conditions
Workers may also develop mental health conditions as a result of their job duties. This can include conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you can prove that your mental health condition was caused by your job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Injuries while traveling for work
If you are injured while traveling for work, such as in a car accident or while flying, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, it is important to note that there are some limitations on this type of claim, and it can be more difficult to prove that the injury was work-related.
Aggravation of pre-existing conditions
If you have a pre-existing condition that is aggravated by your job duties, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. For example, if you have a back injury that is worsened by heavy lifting at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
It is important to note that not all injuries or illnesses will qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. In order to be eligible, the injury or illness must be work-related and must have occurred while you were performing job duties. Additionally, you must be an employee of the company and not an independent contractor.
It can be challenging to prove that an injury or illness was caused during the course of employment. If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, an experienced Las Vegas work injury attorney at Shook & Stone can help you better understand your legal rights and options. Please contact us at 702-570-0000 for a free and comprehensive consultation.
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