Workplace injuries can happen to anyone, often when least expected. Whether you slip on a wet floor, develop repetitive strain injuries from daily tasks, or encounter equipment malfunctions, these accidents can impact the quality of your life.
If you get hurt on the job, you can file a claim with Alabama’s workers’ compensation system to receive benefits. But what happens if you’re partially at fault for the injury? Can you still get coverage for medical bills and lost wages?
Get answers to your questions about Alabama workers’ comp eligibility and learn how our Huntsville workers’ compensation lawyers at Tyler Mann Injury Law can help you receive your entitled benefits.
Alabama Workers’ Compensation: No-Fault Coverage for Injured Workers
Alabama’s workers’ compensation system provides financial and medical support to injured or ill employees. Eligible recipients include part and full-time employees who sustain an injury while performing job-related duties.
The system is designed as ‘no-fault,’ meaning you receive benefits regardless of who caused the injury. This approach ensures you get the necessary support without the need to prove fault, allowing for a more seamless recovery process.
Exceptions to No-Fault Benefits
Many people mistakenly believe that fault determines eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. However, the system is designed to support you no matter who is at fault for the accident. Whether you make a mistake, a coworker slips up, or a random accident happens, you’ll still be eligible for benefits under workers’ compensation laws.
However, some situations can bar you from receiving compensation, including:
- Misconduct: Injuries caused by improper behavior can lead to a denial of your workers’ comp claim. For example, getting hurt while misusing machinery for a prank could result in your claim being rejected.
- Third-Party Actions: Injuries from non-work-related incidents could result in a claim denial. For instance, a personal dispute with a coworker that turns into a fight and causes injuries might jeopardize your claim.
- Self-Harm: Deliberately injuring yourself to claim workers’ comp, such as faking a fall to pretend you have a back injury, will lead to a denial of your claim by the insurance company.
- Intoxication: Alcohol or drug impairment that contributes to your injury, such as tripping and falling while intoxicated, can affect your eligibility for benefits.
- Safety Non-Compliance: Failing to use the required safety equipment can result in a denied claim. For example, if you skip wearing a safety harness and fall, your claim could be rejected.
- Neglect of Duty: Neglecting to complete essential safety-related tasks, like securing safety gates or conducting routine maintenance, can invalidate your claim.
- Rule Violation: Violating workplace rules can lead to forfeiting compensation. For instance, if you enter a restricted area without permission and get injured, you may lose your benefits.
- Drug/Alcohol Screening Refusal: If you refuse to undergo a post-accident drug or alcohol screening, you may lose your right to compensation.
How To File a Successful Workers’ Comp Claim?
Are you concerned that your involvement in a workplace injury might complicate your workers’ comp case? Take steps to protect your rights and ensure your claim is well-supported. Here’s how to file a successful claim, even if you’re partially at fault:
- Notify Your Employer Immediately: Inform your employer about the injury as soon as possible. Alabama law requires you to notify your employer within five days and file your benefits claim within two years.
- Document Every Detail: Gather all medical records, provide a detailed account of how the incident occurred, and maintain a record of all expenses related to your treatment. Detailed notes and medical reports can help refute claims of misconduct or accusations of being intoxicated at the time of the accident.
- Follow Proper Filing Steps: Reporting the incident to your employer immediately is crucial for initiating the claims process, as it allows them to file the necessary First Report of Injury Form. Completing additional paperwork, such as the Supplementary Report or Claims Summary Form, helps provide more detailed information about the incident, and your injuries can further strengthen your claim.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult an attorney for help with your workers’ compensation claim. Our qualified team at Tyler Mann Injury Law can assist you with filing the initial paperwork or representing you during an appeal if needed.
For instance, if your employer denies your claim alleging intoxication, we can provide medical records, witness statements, and toxicology reports to dispute it, helping you receive the compensation you deserve.
Maximize Your Benefits: Speak With Tyler Mann Injury Law Today
Dealing with a workers’ compensation claim can be challenging, particularly when disputes or concerns about fault arise. At Tyler Mann Injury Law, we bring extensive experience to these cases and know the strategies employers and insurers often use to deny employees the coverage they deserve.
Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the filing process or help you appeal a denial, ensuring you get the financial support you need for your recovery. Reach out to our law firm for a free consultation, and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.