If you fall ill while you’re working or are made ill by something you did on the job, then you may be able to seek workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is intended to help workers who are either injured or who become sick while working (or because of working) the jobs they do.
Occupational diseases like asbestosis from asbestos exposure, work-induced asthma and even exposure to dangerous viruses on the job could lead someone to make a workers’ compensation claim. If they are able to show that the illness is linked to their workplace or hazards that they were exposed to, then they could obtain compensation and coverage for medical care (among other benefits).
To get workers’ compensation, you must have a compensable injury or illness
Before you can get workers’ compensation, you will need to show that you have a compensable injury or illness that is related to the work you do or did. It is common for occupational illnesses such as the following to be covered:
- Work-related asthma
- Black lung
- Asbestosis
- Silicosis
- Hearing loss
- Heatstroke
On top of these injuries that could be covered, you may also be able to seek compensation for injuries related to the stress of your illness, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression or anxiety.
What do you need to do to make your claim?
It is important that you make a claim as soon as you can, so you protect your right to a claim within the statute of limitations. Once you begin your claim, you will need to gather evidence of your illness and how it is related to your workplace.
Once you submit the documentation to the workers’ compensation insurance provider, you will receive a letter that lets you know if you had your claim approved or if it has been denied. If it was denied, you do have a right to appeal, which is something that you may want to look into obtaining legal support to assist with. This claim and your appeal will need to be thorough to give you the best chance of success while seeking the benefits you deserve.