Remote work is here to stay. If you telecommute or work from home, you might wonder what happens if you get injured while on the clock. How much responsibility do you carry, and can you file a workers’ compensation claim if you get hurt or sick while performing your duties? We discuss how employment and workers’ comp laws apply to remote work.
Workers’ Compensation and Telecommuters
Workers’ comp laws can be a complicated legal area to navigate regardless of your work arrangement. However, you can be sure you’ll need to go through the workers’ comp process to get reimbursement or benefits.
But what about remote employees or telecommuters? Quickly advancing technology and emerging workplace trends have increased the popularity of working remotely. Are employees who work at home covered under the same workers’ compensation laws as those at brick-and-mortar locations?
State laws vary, but generally, the answer is “yes.” At-home employees are entitled to the same worker’s compensation benefits as on-site workers. Unfortunately, you shouldn’t automatically assume your employer knows this, and you may need a lawyer to help you get your claim approved.
Employers Are Responsible for Their Employees
Your employer is responsible for your safety and well-being as long as you’re on their time. If you’re unsure if your injury meets the requirements set forth by law, discuss the details of your claim with an attorney who knows local and state work injury laws. If your company is based in another state than the one you work in, this could further complicate your claim. However, don’t immediately assume you can’t be reimbursed or give up on filing your claim.
Working from home doesn’t disqualify you from workers’ compensation protections. For example, spending long hours at a desk in front of a computer has unique risks, and you’re eligible for the same protections as other workers if you suffer adverse effects like muscle strains and pain.
Workers’ Comp Lawyers Who Help Remote Employees
Telecommuters deserve legal representation, too! At Clements, Taylor, Butkovich & Cohen, LPA, Co., we help employees in all industries and settings. We understand that at-home workers face occupational hazards and need compensation for getting sick or hurt. Call today at 513.721.6500 if you’re a remote employee who needs to file a workers’ comp claim. We’ll help you understand the entire process and answer all your questions.