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Are work-from-home injuries covered under workers’ compensation?

On Behalf of | Dec 4, 2020 | Workers' Compensation |

With nearly half of the workers in Pennsylvania working from home, many people have questions about whether they’re entitled to the same workplace benefits. If they’re not working at the office or the job site, are they still considered “on the clock” and will they still qualify for workers’ compensation if they get injured? Here’s what one expert had to say on the subject.

Are people who work from home still eligible for workers’ compensation?

Working from home might seem relatively safe and even safer than driving to the office every day. However, you can still get injured at home. You can trip, fall down the stairs, strain yourself while picking up a package and experience other mishaps in your home office.

Many people assume that they’re not eligible for workers’ compensation if they get injured at home. But according to Attorney Levi Wolf, you could be eligible for workers’ comp in Pennsylvania if you’re injured during work hours. However, you’ll have to be “on the clock” for your injury to qualify – basically you have to be in furtherance of your employer’s work while you are hurt. If you’re injured outside of work hours, you probably won’t qualify for benefits, but injuries sustained while taking short breaks for “personal comfort,” such as standing up to stretch, or going to the bathroom, may still be compensable. Each case is very fact-specific, and should be discussed with a lawyer.

In any case, if you get injured on the job, experts recommend documenting the incident so that you have written evidence of an accident occurring. You should also report the incident as soon as possible. You may be entitled to benefits that can cover your lost wages and your medical bills.

What if your workers’ compensation claim is denied?

Employers frequently deny legitimate workers’ comp claims. If you believe that this has happened to you, you might wish to hire an attorney to help you appeal your claim. Your attorney can help you gather evidence to prove to a court that you’ve suffered from a work injury.

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