As the holiday season approaches, it is very common for many folks to take on an additional job. These seasonal workers tend to be individuals who only work for a company for a short duration of time over the holiday season to help with the increased level of production. If you are classified as a seasonal worker you may be wondering about your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits in the event that you are injured on the job. Regardless of your job classification—full-time or temporary seasonal worker—you have the complete right to file a workers’ compensation claim and receive compensation for your injury.
Temporary Work and Workers’ Compensation
According to Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws, if you are a temporary or seasonal worker, you may be eligible to receive benefits. The law requires employers to carry insurance for employees and does not distinguish between full-time workers and part-time workers. It also doesn’t distinguish between those who are working for the employer on an indefinite basis and those who are hired on a temporary basis. All employees of companies who are required to have workers’ comp insurance may qualify for benefits if they are hurt on the job. Coverage for all temporary employees begins their first day on the job. There is no waiting period and a claim can’t be denied due to lack of experience or length of time at the job.
Common Injuries for Temporary Workers
There are two main types of injuries that could happen to you while working during the holidays:
- Repetitive injuries are caused by repetitive motions such as lifting boxes or assembling goods. These types of injuries can include muscular strains, carpal tunnel, and other ailments that develop over time from performing the same movements. These injuries may not be alarming at first, however if untreated, they can cause serious health concerns and lasting damage.
- Broken bones and muscle strains are other types of injuries sustained by workers during the holiday rush. It is not uncommon during the holiday season for employees to work long hours of overtime and push themselves past what their bodies can handle.
Filing a Claim
In order to obtain workers’ comp benefits, you have to follow the same procedure every other regular time employee must follow. You want to make sure to always report your injury to your employer right away—within 30 days of occurrence. You will then pick from a list of doctors offered to you by the employer and can expect to receive compensation for medical bills, rehab therapy, pharmacy costs, and even travel expenses. If you have a catastrophic illness then you are entitled to long-term benefits. You can even receive benefits for lost wages if you have to miss multiple days of work.
Consult a Lawyer
Temporary workers have the same rights to workers’ compensation as any other employee but the path to getting there may be more difficult. It is essential that as a temporary worker you understand your rights under the law because they can be confusing. You must contact a workers’ comp attorney so that your rights are protected and you get a fair and just recovery.
The holidays are a busy time for everyone, but especially those working in industries that are in high demand. It is important to remain diligent and safe while on the job, however if you find yourself in a situation in which you have been injured while at work, do not hesitate to reach out to Poirier Law Firm for a consultation. We are here to help and support workers following on-the-job injuries.