In response to the Covid-19 epidemic, Workers’ Compensation authorities across each state and territory are providing more information for employers, workers, health and medical practitioners, attorneys, and others. For general guidance relating to Workers Compensation and Covid-19 on your particular situation, our Phoenix Workers Compensation Lawyers can help as they are always updated with the information provided by the relevant authorities. You can seek specific advice from our Snow, Carpio & Weekley, PLC attorneys if you need further information on your particular circumstance.
Does Workers’ Compensation cover you if you contract Covid-19?
Workers’ compensation provisions differ from case to case. However, to be eligible for compensation as a worker, you would need to:
· Have a disease, illness, or injury that is covered by the Workers’ Compensation scheme that resulted from the course of your employment.
· Be covered by the Workers’ Compensation scheme, either as a deemed worker or an employee.
These eligibility elements still apply during the Covid-19 epidemic.
In contrast with work-related injuries, it can be tough to prove that a disease was caused by or contracted in a particular occupation. In the case of the Covid-19 virus, ascertaining the place and time of contraction can be even harder. While the spread of the virus is contained, it might be easier to prove whether the contraction is employment-related, for example, if in the course of your work you travel to high-risk areas with a known Covid-19 outbreak or interact with individuals who have tested positive for the virus. However, after the virus becomes wide-spread, mainly in your local community, determining the measure of the contribution of your employment to the contraction of the virus will undoubtedly become more difficult.
Whether your Workers’ Compensation claim for contracting the Covid-19 virus is accepted depends on the laws and regulations of the relevant authorities. Workers’ Compensation authorities will reflect on each claim based on its merits by considering the individual evidence and circumstances.
Can you get Workers’ Compensation if you lose your job as a result of workplace closures?
Workers’ Compensation does not pay off workers for the loss of employment due to workplace closures. To be eligible for compensation as a worker, you would need to:
· Have a disease, illness, or injury that is covered by the scheme and arose in the course of your employment.
· Be covered by the Workers’ Compensation scheme, either as a deemed worker or an employee.
If you have an existing Workers’ Compensation claim and your workplace has closed, you should contact your Workers’ Compensation Authority or seek advice from our Snow, Carpio & Weekley, PLC lawyers. We can assist you in getting the financial support you need during these tough times as we are updated with the latest information concerning Covid-19 regulations.
Does Workers’ Compensation cover you if you get infected while working at home?
If you contract Covid-19 while working at home, you might be eligible for Worker’s Compensation. The relevant authorities would consider your claim based on the evidence and merits of your particular situation.
For more information about Workers’ Compensation and Covid-19, contact Snow, Carpio & Weekley, PLC today to learn more about how we can help you in getting the financial assistance you need during this Covid-19 pandemic.
