An occupational exposure or on-the-job injury claim covers workers who are exposed to diseases or infections through activities related to their job duties. Oftentimes, this applies to workers who come in contact with dangerous substances or chemicals that can result in a myriad of health issues, sometimes not revealed until years later. In today’s world, however, many employees are fearful of exposure to something different: COVID-19. Luckily, if you are a worker who has been exposed to coronavirus because of the nature of your job, you could be eligible to file a claim.
Jobs covered under COVID-19 Workers’ Comp Claims
The list of jobs that could be covered under COVID-19 as an on-the-job injury or occupational exposure are still up for debate. Largely, the outcome of occupational exposure claims related to COVID-19 are dependent on a case-by-case basis. There are several workers, however, who are likely to have a strong argument for an occupational exposure or on-the-job injury claim including:
- First responders
- Health care professionals
- Pharmacists
- Paramedics
- Nurses
- Doctors
- Therapists
- And all workers supporting these positions
Filing a Claim
If you feel as though you have a strong case for filing a COVID-19 related claim, the process for filing a claim is the exact same as an ordinary workers’ compensation claim. If you have reported the injury or illness to your employer and it has been denied, your first step must be to file a WC-14 with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
If you have contracted COVID-19 and want to file a claim for your injury, you have one year from the date of the injury occurred/diagnosis if there are no workers’ compensation benefits paid. If workers compensation benefits are paid you are granted two years from the last weekly indemnity check or one year from the last paid medical treatment if paid for through workers’ compensation.
This is an extremely difficult time for many workers, especially ones who face a continuous risk of exposure to COVID-19. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important that you immediately take the steps to protect yourself and file a claim. Poirier Law Firm is here for you whether you need advice on your claim or are searching for a team to fight for your rights! Don’t wait another day, contact us now!