When you sustain an injury at your workplace, the natural reaction is to file a workers’ compensation claim to get the financial support you need. The process may not be so cut and dry if an accident happens while you are not on the clock, however.
In any workers’ compensation case, receiving a payout from your benefits is often a matter of proving that your work is the cause of your injury or that it contributes to a harmful condition. By understanding more about this process, you can determine if you have a viable claim for an injury that occurs during a break period.
Reporting an injury that occurs off the clock
Regardless of whether or not you think you might receive compensation for your injury, you should report the incident to your employer as per the recommended procedures. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry explains the deadlines for reporting an injury. You must report within 14 days to be on time, meaning that your employer cannot deny your claim on the basis of late notice.
Proving your injury is work-related
An accident that occurs during your break can still be work-related if it happens as a result of performing your regular duties. Keep accurate documentation, collect evidence or request witness testimony as proof that your actions leading up to the injury are those that might further your employer’s interests.
Significant injuries can affect your ability to work and your overall livelihood. Just because an accident occurs off the clock does not mean you should give up hope of receiving the compensation you need in a dire situation.