Being injured on the job can land you in a stressful situation, especially if you’re a part-time worker. The truth is that part-time workers in Minnesota are often entitled to the same protections as full-time employees under state workers’ compensation laws.
With over 50 years of combined experience, the workers’ compensation lawyers at Atkinson Gerber understand how confusing and frustrating it can be when employers give conflicting information about your rights.
If you need help with your claim or have questions about your eligibility, call Atkinson Gerber at 651-333-3636 for a free consultation.
You don’t have to work a minimum number of hours to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Minnesota. It doesn’t matter if you work 40 hours a week or only a few hours on the weekends; you’re still covered by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance.
What matters is that your injury or illness happened while performing tasks at your job. There are some exceptions, however, so it’s always a good idea to consult with an attorney.
The benefits you’re entitled to could be lower because they’re based on your average weekly wage before your injury. However, being a part-time worker in Minnesota doesn’t disqualify you from receiving compensation. You’re still entitled to medical benefits, rehabilitation assistance, and a portion of your lost wages.
Having multiple part-time jobs can affect your workers’ compensation claim in Minnesota, especially when it comes to calculating your wage-loss benefits. If you had more than one job when your injury happened, your total average weekly wage could include income from all of your employers.
This can make a big difference in the amount of benefits you could be entitled to. That said, the law is complicated, and insurance companies don’t always account for your additional income unless you push for it.
If you’ve been injured on the job, you should report your injury to your employer as soon as possible and get medical treatment from one of the physicians listed on their policy. If your employer pushes back, let them know you’ll talk to the insurance company to confirm.
From there, consider contacting a Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney from Atkinson Gerber to review your case. A lawyer can help you file a claim, appeal a denial, or challenge any misclassification. It’s not uncommon for part-time employees to be told they’re not eligible, and legal help can protect your rights.
Navigating a work-related injury as a part-time employee doesn’t mean you have to settle for less. If your employer denied your claim or said you aren’t eligible because of your part-time status, don’t give up.
The experienced attorneys at Atkinson Gerber are here to fight for your rights and secure the benefits you’re entitled to.
Contact us today at 651-333-3636 to schedule a free consultation, and let us put our experience to work for you.