Workers’ Compensation Claim Eligibility in Springfield

Workers’ compensation can be an essential part of recovery if you have a work-related injury or illness, but it is not always clear whether you qualify for benefits.

At Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C., we could explain workers’ compensation claim eligibility in Springfield and help you seek the resources you need to protect your family and future. We care about helping injured workers get the compensation they deserve. Our workers’ compensation attorneys could guide you through the claims process and help you pursue the benefits available to you.

Do You Have Workers’ Compensation Coverage?

Almost every employee has workers’ compensation coverage through their employer. This coverage generally applies to full- and part-time workers, regardless of their immigration status or payment method.

There are a few exceptions. The following employers do not have to provide workers’ compensation:

• Individuals employing people to do work on their own homes
• Non-profit corporations with no paid staff
• Corporations where each employee is an owner/director, owns 25 percent of the business, and has given up their rights to workers’ compensation
• Employers who only engage independent contractors and have no direct employees

If you have questions about whether you qualify for workers’ compensation, our Springfield lawyers could help you determine whether you have coverage through an employer’s policy and guide you through the claims process.

How Do You Prove Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is no-fault insurance, meaning you do not have to prove that your employer or anyone else is responsible for causing your injury or illness.

You may be eligible for a claim involving workers’ compensation in Springfield if you can prove that your condition is work-related, severe enough to require medical treatment, and prevents you from performing your job.

If you have an injury caused by a workplace accident, you could prove it using accident reports and witness statements. For an occupational illness or repetitive-stress injury, proving that your condition is job-related could be more complex. You may need help from experts, such as medical professionals or vocational specialists.

Medical records, such as diagnostic testing or doctor treatment notes, could prove that you have a serious medical condition and need to take time off work to heal.

What if the Insurance Company Says You Are Not Eligible?

Insurance companies may challenge the validity of claims to limit payouts. Your employer’s insurer may attempt to dispute your eligibility and disqualify you from receiving benefits.

To avoid paying, the insurance company may claim that:

• Your injury or illness did not happen because of your job
• You caused your injury or illness through misconduct, such as working while intoxicated
• You did not provide enough medical evidence to prove that your injury or illness prevents you from working
• The delay in reporting suggests your injury did not occur at work

If you have difficulty securing benefits, an attorney at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. could review your claim and help you understand your options. We handle more workers’ compensation cases than any other firm in Worcester and Western Massachusetts. Our Springfield attorneys could help you gather the evidence you need to establish your claim eligibility and pursue the full compensation you deserve after a work injury.

Are There Time Limits for Seeking Benefits?

To remain eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim, you should immediately report your injury or illness to your Springfield employer.

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 152 § 41 allows you up to four years to file a claim. However, if you do not promptly notify your employer, the insurance company could use the delay to argue that your injury did not occur at work.

In general, you should file as soon as you become injured or become aware of your condition. Our lawyers could help you understand the deadlines that apply to your situation.

Contact a Springfield Attorney To Determine if You Have a Valid Workers’ Compensation Claim

If you or a loved one was hurt at work or has a work-related illness, our attorneys could help you establish your workers’ compensation claim eligibility in Springfield. We could help you prepare and file your claim and build your case with evidence. If you receive a claim denial, we could assist with an appeal.

Contact Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. today for a free consultation.