Coronavirus and Worker’s Compensation – There’s no question the thing on everybody’s mind lately is, of course, the coronavirus. It’s unavoidable. It leads to every headline and opening monologue. And as I’m writing these words, there are two confirmed cases in our great state of Colorado. So with that in mind, let’s talk a bit about this topic from the point of view of worker’s compensation.
Coronavirus and Worker’s Compensation
If you get infected while on the job (with COVID-19 or any other infectious disease), what rights do you have to receive benefits while out of work and receiving treatment?
Be sure you can prove it.
You are, in fact, entitled to worker’s compensation benefits if you’ve contracted an infectious disease, as long as you can prove you contracted it while on the job. That’s the major caveat here. You’re going to need proof that you didn’t get sick from a friend or family member, going out to eat, or just walking around out in public. If you can’t show that you were infected or exposed to the virus while at work, you’re going to have a hard time getting worker’s compensation to pay for treatment, downtime, etc.
It should go without saying that this can be quite difficult to substantiate unless you’re in a particular working situation. For example, those who work in hospitals or are first responders, especially in cases where treatment has been administered to someone with coronavirus, will have an easier path towards proving their disease was contracted at work. The key thing to keep in mind here is documented contact. There needs to be a written record of coronavirus present within the roughly two-week time period leading up to when your symptoms arise.
In short, we need to make sure it’s seemingly much more likely than not that you contracted the virus at work. If all the cards fall in your favor, there’s a good chance that worker’s compensation will cover your incurred expenses.
Additional Resources:
How We’re Working Hard and Safe for You During COVID-19
Tips for Successful Court Hearings by Video during COVID-19
Coronavirus and Worker’s Compensation – As always, we’re here to help!
We here at Kaplan Morrell are passionate about helping Colorado workers and their families get the benefits they deserve as a result of a work-related injury. We can help recover lost wages, medical care, and other assistance you’re entitled to under the law. If you think we might be able to help, please give us a call at (970) 356-9898 to arrange an initial consultation – which is always free! We’ve got offices throughout the front range, but more importantly, we’re in your back pocket when you need representation.
