What Does Workers’ Compensation Not Cover?

 

Accidents on the job can be a scary situation, especially if you end up injured. Workers’ compensation can help you cover medical bills or other expenses while you get back on your feet. However, there may be certain instances where you don’t qualify for workers’ comp benefits in the state of Missouri.

Here is what Missouri workers’ compensation doesn’t cover.

Employer Exceptions to Missouri Workers’ Compensation

Generally, most employers in Missouri are required by law to have workers’ comp insurance for their employees. This includes businesses and contractors. There are some exceptions, though.

Companies with less than five employees aren’t required to purchase workers’ comp coverage. Sole proprietors and partners are also not covered. The Workers’ Compensation Act in Missouri also excludes certain industries, including farm workers, real estate agencies, and commercial motor-carriers.

All of these exemptions can elect to purchase workmans comp coverage, but don’t assume your company has such insurance if the above conditions apply to your job.

Employee Exceptions to Missouri Workers’ Compensation

Even if your company does provide workmans comp insurance, you may still be ineligible depending on how and when your injury occurred.

At least 50% of the injury must be work-related. This means injuries that occurred outside of work don’t qualify, even if they are exacerbated by your job. You’re also not able to receive benefits if the injury was self-inflicted or caused by drugs or intoxication.

Safety measures are important, too. If you deliberately ignored safety rules or didn’t use proper equipment, you may not receive workers’ comp. To get benefits, it must have been an accident that caused brand-new work-related injuries.

Getting You the Missouri Workers Compensation Benefits You Deserve

Workers’ comp claims are a confusing legal process to navigate alone. One missing document may lead to your claim being denied, and there are hundreds of legal loopholes you may fall through on your own.

If you’ve been injured on the job in Missouri, don’t try to file a claim yourself. Instead, contact the experts at Lanzotti & Rau to help you build and win your case.

Our expert team of Missouri workers compensation attorneys is ready to help you pursue legal action to receive benefits for your work-related injury. To learn more about our workers’ compensation legal services or how we handle our cases, call 573-335-9300 and schedule a free consultation.