Workers Compensation
Workers
Compensation can be claimed if the incident occurs while doing
your job. This includes accidents that happen not just at your
normal workplace, but also any other location you have been assigned
by your employer to perform tasks. The claim covers the injury,
as well as any medical and related expenses, plus loss of income.
Who You Claim Against
Workers
Compensation Insurance is required of employers to cover possible
claims for compensation at the workplace. An accident at work
will involve a claim against your employer but any actual Workers
Compensation is paid by the insurance company. This should not
put you at risk of losing your job. You cannot be terminated
for claiming Workers Compensation, so consult your legal adviser
should you feel your claim has jeopardized your employment.
How to Make a Claim
Should you suffer an injury at the workplace which you believe is not your fault, report the incident as soon as possible to your employer and your trade union representative. Afterwards, consult a solicitor whose specialty is compensation law. He or she will inform you whether you have a case, and if so, guide you through the rest of the claim process.
Employer Liability
Under Health and Safety Regulations, it is an employers responsibility
to ensure the safety of their employees. This includes measures
such as giving proper training and making sure that all machinery
and equipment fulfill standards set by the Government.
Exceptions for Time Limits
There is usually a 3 year time limit for making Workers Compensation
claims for workplace injuries. However there are instances such
as disease or injuries that arise after a long time has passed
since the incident or incidents that caused it took place. Consult
your legal adviser to see whether you are still eligible to
claim for compensation under these exceptions. |