MN Workers’ Compensation Laws Overview
When you’re going about your day at work and performing job-related tasks, the last thing you expect is to suffer injuries in a workplace accident.
However, statistics from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that these incidents are more common than you think.
According to a report on State Occupational Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities for 2017, there were 72,500 recordable cases in Minnesota regarding medical conditions resulting from work-related activities. The implications extend far beyond the physical pain and into financial consequences, as employees experienced 36,600 days away from work.
Fortunately, Minnesota workers’ compensation laws protect employees who are unable to work because of illness or injury. Monetary benefits are available, though they’re not automatic.
You must successfully navigate the claims process, which can be complicated. To increase your chances of quick approval and prompt payment, it’s wise to retain a Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney for assistance. A summary of the relevant laws may also be helpful.
MINNESOTA WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWS FAQ
Legal Obligations for Minnesota Employers
Under MN workers’ compensation laws, all employers must procure insurance policies to cover the losses of eligible employees who suffer from work-related ailments. As such, your first step in seeking monetary benefits is filing a claim with the worker’s comp insurance company. You don’t have to prove that your employer was at fault, but you must meet strict eligibility rules to qualify.
MN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWS FAQ
Eligibility Under MN Workers’ Comp Laws
The primary consideration for purposes of qualifying for benefits is your status. Most workers will be eligible, even those that are part-time. The exception is for individuals who work as independent contractors, as separate from the employer’s business. The second key to qualifying for workers’ comp benefits is the incident or work-related factors that led to your medical condition. Both injuries and occupational illnesses are covered by state laws.
Aside from eligibility, you should note that there are deadlines and time restrictions you must obey to ensure you get the workers’ comp benefits you deserve. You need to inform your employer within 14 days after a workplace accident, or you could lose your rights.
MINNESOTA WORK COMP LAWS FAQ
Benefits for Qualifying Employees
If you qualify, there are multiple monetary benefits you may be entitled to receive:
- The costs of medical care, including all treatment, equipment, supplies, and transportation expenses to and from appointments;
- Lost wages, which are a percentage of your income that you lose because of being unable to work; and,
- Vocational rehabilitation, to provide training, education, and other support if you need to move into another occupation because of your injuries.
In addition, death benefits are available for family members of workers who lose a loved one because of a workplace accident.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Skilled Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
To learn more about your rights under Minnesota workers’ compensation laws, please contact Arechigo & Stokka, P.A. to speak to a member of our workers’ compensation team.
You can call 651-222-6603 or visit our website to set up a complimentary case evaluation at our St. Paul, MN office. We’ll be in a better position to advise you once we review your unique circumstances.
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