Workplace injuries can be a depressingly common risk for employees in almost any type of job. To protect these workers and their employers, there are insurance policies that can provide compensation to workers that have suffered workplace injuries. However, these policies are often misunderstood by both workers and business leaders.

Myth: All Employees Are Protected Under Worker's Compensation Policies

While worker's compensation coverage is an extremely common type of protection, there are exceptions for some industries and business types. As a result, individuals should assume that they are protected under one of these policies until they confirm it with their employer.

For example, many states will have exemptions for small businesses that have below a certain number of employees. Additionally, individuals that work as contractors are typically not protected under the policies.

By being aware of the coverage requirements for the businesses where you live, it will be easier to choose a job that will protect you from the financial costs of work-related injuries.

Myth: Only Injuries From Physical Accidents Are Eligible For Worker's Compensation Benefits

Due to accidents that result in physical injuries being extremely noticeable events, many workers will assume that their injuries must result from this type of incident in order to be eligible for worker's compensation coverage. Unfortunately, there are many ways that workers can be injured that may not involve an obvious or dramatic accident.

One of the most common examples of this is employees who suffer repetitive stress injuries or illnesses due to being exposed to harmful chemicals. Sadly, there are more difficulties involved with proving these injuries were related to the employee's work or working conditions.

Luckily, an attorney that handles worker's compensation cases will be familiar with the strategies for gathering the evidence needed to link these injuries to their client's work.

Myth: Worker's Compensation Only Takes Effect If You Lack Health Insurance

Some workers might be under the impression that there is a connection between their personal health insurance and their worker's compensation coverage. However, your personal health insurance status is not a factor when it comes to whether or not your injuries will qualify for this type of coverage.

In the event that your claim is denied, your personal health insurance may allow you to seek treatment on your own, but this will hopefully be avoided. If you find that your worker's compensation claim is rejected, an immediate appeal should be filed. Otherwise, the appeal window may close before you are able to have your case heard.

For more information about filing a worker's compensation claim, contact an attorney service such as Law Office of Joel A. Santos.