Minnesota Worker's Compensation

If you were injured in the workplace, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under federal or state workmans' compensation laws. There are important distinctions between workers' compensation and personal injury. Unfortunately, an injured worker is likely to recover less compensation for his/her injury if they were hurt on the job than if they were hurt outside the workplace. On the other hand, the injured worker is entitled to compensation even if the injury-causing incident was the worker’s fault. In addition, workers' compensation matters are handled at hearings instead of a trial and are handled by administrative law judges.

Many work-related injuries are compensable. If an employee sustains an injury in the workplace that occurs in an instant, such as a rupture or strain, the injury is compensable. In addition, injuries that occur over a long period of time, such as deafness caused by frequent exposure to loud noises, are compensable. Even foreseeable diseases or injuries that are unique to certain types of jobs, such as silicosis and asbestosis, are compensable.

Workmans' Compensation benefits usually include your medical bills, prescription costs, and the cost of medical devices (hearing aids, crutches, etc). In addition, you may be eligible for occupational therapy, nursing care, educational expenses, and vocational training.

Various federal laws provide compensation for injured employees that work in specific industries.  The Federal Employment Liability Act requires railroad companies to provide compensation for injured railroad employees.  The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act provides compensation for employees of private maritime employers.  The Merchant Marine Act provides compensation for seamen injured in the course and scope of employment.