How Does Workers’ Compensation Affect Remote Workers?

There are times when employees can claim workers’ compensation benefits after a remote work injury. These claims, though, are far more complex.

Of all the many things that came from the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise in remote workers was one of the biggest. In fact, a nationwide study conducted in October of 2021 found that nine out of ten workers want to continue working remotely in some capacity moving forward. Remote work has many benefits, and many studies have even shown that it increases productivity. However, it can also create confusion around traditional processes and procedures, including workers’ compensation benefits. So, if you are injured while working at home, can you still claim coverage?

Remote Workplace Injuries Still Qualify for Workers’ Compensation

Employers are not allowed to discontinue their workers’ compensation insurance just because their employers are working remotely. Employees who work remotely and become injured still have a legal right to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, the same rules for workers’ compensation eligibility still apply. This means injured workers must have been performing their employment duties when they became hurt. Even though workers’ compensation remains no-fault for remote workers, employees cannot claim benefits if certain wrongful actions, such as being drunk on the job, continued to the accident.

The Challenge of Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim When Working Remotely

Although you can file a workers’ compensation claim after being hurt while working remotely, these claims do present certain challenges. One of the main hurdles to overcome is that you have more control over the conditions of your home than you do the conditions of an outside workplace. You have a responsibility to make sure that your workspace is safe when working remotely. As such, it can be more difficult to claim compensation after sustaining an injury while working remotely.

For example, if you developed carpal tunnel syndrome because you spent many hours using a computer, filing a workers’ compensation claim may be fairly straightforward. On the other hand, if you tripped over your chair while getting up to get a cup of coffee and you hit your head, you may find claiming workers’ compensation more difficult.

Establishing the link between the work being performed and the injury sustained at home is much more difficult for remote workers. If you have been injured while working from home, it is critical that you speak with a Florida workers’ compensation lawyer who can help you overcome the obstacles these claims present.

Call Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Florida for Sound Legal Advice

Claiming workers’ compensation benefits is never easy. It becomes even more difficult to obtain the benefits that are justly yours when you have sustained an injury while working remotely from home. At Rooth Law Firm, our Florida workers’ compensation lawyer can prove you sustained your injury during the course of employment and will hold your employer and the insurance company accountable for paying full benefits. Call us now at 727-849-3400 or reach out to us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about your legal options.