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Myths about workers’ compensation in Virginia: Things to know

Workplace accidents are not uncommon in Virginia and can happen to anyone. State laws require every employer to carry insurance for workers compensation kansas city mo, and in return, injured workers cannot directly sue their employers after getting injured at work. Injured workers often don’t understand the key aspects of this no-fault insurance system, and as a result, they don’t get the compensation they deserve. In this guide to workers’ compensation in Virginia, we are sharing some of the common myths and truths related to it.

#1 – You have to report the injury on the same day

False. Yes, you should consider reporting the accident and your injuries to your employer at the earliest. However, just because you failed to do so on the same day doesn’t mean you cannot claim benefits of the workers’ compensation system.  In Virginia, you can claim workers’ compensation benefits as long as you report the accident to your employer within 30 days from the date of injury. Although, it is best not to delay the same. 

#2 – You cannot get workers’ compensation benefits if you are at fault

The workers comp insurance canton mi is a no-fault insurance system. In other words, it doesn’t matter who or what caused your injury. As long as your injury is related to the work you do at your workplace, you can claim the benefits.

#3 – You can sue your employer

We touched on this at the start of this post. No, you cannot directly sue your employer because you were injured at work. However, if your employer denied to report the accident, or when there are other issues, you could take legal action. Talk to your attorney to know the scope of your case, although in most cases, it is not possible to sue the employer. 

#4 – You can claim benefits for all injuries as long as you were at work

False. Just because you were at work when you were injured doesn’t mean you can claim the benefits under the workers’ compensation system. The injury should be related to the work you do. For instance, if you suddenly suffered a heart attack during your break time and had a history of heart disease, you cannot claim compensation under the workers’ compensation system. That’s because your injury is not directly related to the work. 

Finally, remember that the insurance company is not on your side. If you want to get a fair settlement after suffering injuries at work, you need an attorney.