Are you a part-time employee in Nashville wondering how workers comp coverage applies to you? Look no further! Whether you work two days a week or just during the holiday season, understanding your potential for coverage is crucial.
If you’ve been injured at your job, you must get ready to navigate through the maze of workers’ compensation policies governing part-time employees. And, of course, your best bet is to reach out to a capable Nashville workers’ compensation lawyer to see how you can get compensated for your losses.
What Is Workers’ Comp Insurance?
Workers’ compensation insurance compensates employees for any injuries or illnesses they might’ve sustained while working.
These benefits usually include:
- Medical expenses
- Income replacement
- Death benefits
In general, workers compensation insurance covers any injury or illness that arises out of and in the course of employment. This includes workplace accidents, repetitive stress injuries, and exposure to hazardous materials or conditions. Workers’ compensation does not cover injuries that occur outside of work.
To best understand where you stand in your case, discuss matters immediately with a worker’s compensation attorney.
Who Is Eligible For Workers’ Comp Insurance?
Your eligibility for workers comp coverage as a part-time employee will depend on factors like your employer’s size, the type of work you do, and whether yours is considered a “hazardous occupation.”
Employers with at least five employees who work at least 20 hours per week must carry workers’ compensation insurance in Tennessee. If your employer meets this threshold, then all employees (including part-time employees) are eligible for coverage.
The type of work you do also matters when determining your eligibility for workers’ compensation insurance. Some jobs are considered “hazardous occupations” and therefore carry a higher risk of injury. Examples include construction work, mining, logging, and agricultural labor.
If you work in one of these occupations, you will likely be covered by workers’ compensation insurance even if your employer has fewer than five employees.
Your eligibility for workers’ compensation insurance may also depend on whether you are classified as an “independent contractor.” Independent contractors are not considered employees under Tennessee law and are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
This itself depends on several factors, including how much control your employer has over your work and how integral you are to the company’s business.
What Benefits Do Part-Time Employees Receive?
If you are a part-time employee who is injured or becomes ill while working, you may be eligible for benefits covering medical expenses and lost wages.
To receive the said benefits, you must first report the matter to your employer, and fill out the paperwork. Your employer will then submit the said documents to their insurer for their consideration. Once the claim is approved, the insurance carrier will begin paying benefits.
Medical Benefits
Medical benefits can cover the cost of treatment for your injury or illness. This can include doctors’ visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription medications. If you need ongoing treatment, such as physical therapy, the insurance carrier may continue to pay benefits.
Lost Wages
Lost wage benefits can replace a portion of your lost earnings if you are unable to work because of your injury or illness. These benefits are generally paid until you can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
How Does A Claim Work If I Am A Part-Time Employee?
As a part-time employee who was injured on the job and is covered by workers’ compensation, you should receive benefits regardless of who was at fault for your accident. However, there are some things that you need to know about filing a claim and receiving benefits:
Report Your Accident Immediately
It is important to report your accident to your employer as soon as possible. They’ll ask you to fill out forms – once you do so, they’ll then send it to their insurer for further processing.
What Happens When You Send Out The Claim Form?
Once the insurance company receives the claim form, they will investigate the accident. If they determine that you are eligible for benefits, they will send you a notice of approval. This notice will explain what benefits you are entitled to and how much you will receive.
Contact Your Lawyer
If you have any questions about your benefits or the claims process, you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and get the benefits that you deserve.
Let An Experienced Nashville Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help You!
The complexities of workers’ comp coverage for part-time employees can be challenging to quantify and understand.
Our Nashville workers’ compensation attorneys are here to provide experienced guidance and trusted advice when it comes to understanding your rights when filing a claim for workers’ comp benefits, no matter whether you are a full-time or part-time employee.
Contact us today for a free case review!