This is an incredibly difficult and unpredictable time in our world. With coronavirus (COVID-19) spreading rapidly, it is still hard to know how we will all be affected both in the short term and long term. While it seems like life is currently on pause, the fact of the matter is that people still need to make a living. The uncertainty of this situation has left many individuals confused and concerned about not only their health but their employment rights as well. What happens if you are diagnosed with coronavirus and cannot work for an extended period of time? Will your settlement be impacted if you have recently filed a workers’ compensation claim? You are not alone in wondering these questions; these are unusual and somewhat scary times and although we don’t have all the answers, some clarity with these questions can hopefully bring peace to whatever circumstance you are in. 

Coronavirus Diagnosis and Work Coverage 

A recent discussion that has risen from the spread of the coronavirus is whether or not workers’ compensation covers workers who become sick because they came in contact with the virus at their place of employment. Workers’ Compensation coverage is only for on-the-job injuries, so you would have to be able to meet your burden that you acquired it at work and that the Workers’ Compensation Act covers the injury by meeting the burden of proof required. This is a very controversial topic right now as it is not clear how workers’ compensation benefits will be rewarded to individuals who are infected by the virus at their workplace. Until legislation outlines a clearer way to approach situations like this, the best thing you can do to protect yourself is practice sanitary measures and distance yourself as much as possible from crowds. The CDC recommends these guidelines to limit the likelihood of contracting or spreading coronavirus: 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Impact on Your Workers’ Compensation Settlement 

If you are currently settling your workers’ comp case, it should not be impacted at all. Our judges are working hard to make sure that each case that settles continues to operate timely and swiftly. Although there are many problems arising out of this pandemic, your previous workplace injury or illness is no less important. You deserve to be fairly compensated for your claim so you can begin to heal and recover. Your attorney should be fighting for your rights regardless of the current situation.

Workplace Injuries and Illnesses Unrelated to Coronavirus

A fear that some people might have is that if they suffer from a workplace injury or illness that is unrelated to coronavirus, their claim won’t be taken seriously during this time. That is entirely false, as each and every workers’ compensation claim should be treated with equal consideration and importance. At Poirier Law Firm, we are here day and night for any and all workplace injuries. Our clients’ health, safety, and well-being are our utmost priorities and we will continue to fight for anyone who is in need during this time.