Injuries That Qualify for Workers’ Compensation

In 2021, there were 19,600 workplace injuries reported in the state of Nebraska, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. When a workplace accident happens to you, these injuries have the potential to put you out of work for months or even result in a partial or permanent disability. Thankfully, you will likely be able to file for workers’ compensation. However, not many people know what this process looks like or what injuries qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. 

For help with this, call us at Harris & Associates, P.C., L.L.O. We can serve those in and around the Omaha, Nebraska, area, including the surrounding counties of Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, and Lancaster. 

Brief Overview of Workers’ Compensation in Nebraska

The vast majority of Nebraska employers are required to carry workers’ comp, and this is true even if they only have one employee. This insurance ensures that if you sustain a work injury while performing your regular job duties—even in most cases where the accident was your fault—you’ll qualify for filing a workers’ compensation claim. This insurance is mandated by the state, and employers must pay the costs themselves and not pass the expense along to their employees. The only jobs that are exempt from this are certain agricultural jobs, domestic workers, sole proprietors, and federal employees. 

Injuries That Qualify for Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Almost all injuries that occur while at work can qualify for workers’ comp benefits. If you were on the job performing your regular work duties and an accident or illness occurred because of them, you should be covered. This can include injuries from accidents at work such as a traumatic event like a fall or explosion, but can also include cumulative trauma or exposure illnesses that take a long time to develop. Among others, workers’ comp can cover: 

• contusions 

• fractures 

• burns 

• sprains or strains 

• eye injuries 

• lacerations 

• repetitive injuries like carpal tunnel 

• exposure injuries or other occupational diseases 

Injuries Not Covered

There are some instances where an injury will not be covered. This includes times when you weren’t technically at work, such as commuting to and from your job. You will also not be covered for injuries that occur if you were intoxicated while at work. 

Available Benefits

Whenever you’re injured at work, you need to know what benefits are available for workers’ compensation. Workers’ comp will typically cover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation, and funeral and burial services. 

Process to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

If you’re injured while at work, your first step is to get the immediate medical care you need and then notify your employer. Your employer will then help you begin filing your claim. While you aren't required by law to hire a workers’ compensation attorney, many injured employees find it extremely helpful to do so to ensure they get the care and compensation they deserve. 

These claims can take a long time to process, and you’ll have to provide a lot of evidence and documentation to prove the injury was work-related and to show the damages you’ve incurred because of it. Importantly, you’ll need to know the full extent of your injuries, including any ongoing medical care you’ll need. If you don’t have a clear idea of this, then you can be left with unpaid expenses down the road. An experienced lawyer can help make sure your final settlement covers all of this.

Turn to Strong Legal Representation

If you’re in the Omaha, Nebraska, area and have recently been injured at work, you need to explore your options for filing a workers’ comp claim. Reach out to us at Harris & Associates, P.C., L.L.O. to learn more.