Arizona residents may find themselves out of work for a variety of reasons. Some reasons may not qualify one for any type of benefits, while others, such as those that result from a workplace accident, may allow a person to receive workers’ compensation benefits. A workplace accident can have life-altering effects. For example, it can lead to an individual becoming dependent on long-term care. Long-term care can prove to be expensive and when a person is unable to work, these bills can break the bank account. Thankfully, workers’ compensation can help injured workers cover these costs.
Before applying for workers’ compensation, it can be helpful to be aware of what types of injuries qualify a person for workers’ compensation. Though an exhaustive list will not be provided here, there are some basics we can discuss that can help clarify who may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. For one, those who suffer injuries during breaks, lunch hours, work-sponsored activities, or at work in general may make a person eligible for compensation. A pre-existing condition, such as a back injury, that a workplace exacerbates, may also render a worker eligible for benefits.
If a worker becomes exposed to toxins or other hazardous material while working, and that exposure leads to a disease such as cancer, then the victim may be able to receive compensation. Sometimes, too, mental or physical strain can result from excessive work duties and stress. This may cause the development of a disabling condition. Again, this situation may make one eligible for workers’ compensation.
These situations are a general indication of the types of instances where a person may be able to receive workers’ compensation. Attorneys can help workers understand more fully when they may be eligible to receive benefits, so those who have been hurt on the job may want to consider seeking legal assistance
Source: FindLaw, “Workers’ Comp In-depth,” accessed on Dec. 7, 2015
