Workers’ Comp vs Personal Injury Claims for Winter Accidents
As temperatures drop and weather patterns change, the risk of slips, falls and other accidents rises significantly, leaving many people feeling unsure about their rights and coverage options. When an injury occurs at a worksite, it is crucial to understand the differences between workers’ compensation and personal injury claims, since filing for the wrong option can prevent you from receiving the proper support and protection.
While both options provide financial support to the affected party after a workplace injury, there are key differences between the two of them that our clients should be aware of.
Workers’ Compensation
- Designed with the sole intent of protecting employees who are injured while performing their duties.
- The affected party doesn’t have to prove that their employer is at fault to receive benefits.
- This option typically covers the resulting medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, rehabilitation expenses as well as disability benefits.
Personal Injury Claims
- For this option, the affected party has to prove fault to receive benefits
- Can compensate for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income and a variety of other damages not compensated by Workers’ Comp.
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Does Workers’ Comp Cover Winter Slip and Fall Accidents?
Winter weather, both common and severe, can create a variety of hazardous conditions in and around the workplace, raising the risk of accidents. In regards to slip and fall accidents that are caused by snow, ice or wet surfaces, Workers’ Compensation will cover these kinds of accidents—so long as the injury occurred while an employee was performing their job-related tasks.
If an employee suffers a fall on an icy sidewalk, in the parking lot, job sites, or during work-related travel, Workers’ Comp may provide the affected employee with coverage for their medical expenses, plus partial lost wages and any rehabilitation costs. However, not all slips or falls due to winter-related causes qualify for Workers’ Compensation.
For instance, if an injury occurs during an employee’s commute, personal errands or any other non-work related task, it is generally not covered under Workers’ Comp. Each case is determined based on the details of the accident’s circumstances, requiring proper documentation and timely reporting to evaluate the situation effectively.
Understanding the benefits and limitations of when Workers’ Compensation is applicable can help both employees and employers effectively respond after a winter accident and ensure the proper coverage is in place.
NEC Insurance’s Guidance on Winter Accident Claims
Winter accidents and knowing how to properly address them can be stressful and confusing. At NEC Insurance, we prioritize providing clear guidance to our clients, ensuring that each individual and business receives the support and protection they need so they can navigate any and all winter accident claims with confidence.
NEC Insurance works closely with clients to review all the details of each incident, including where and how the injury occurred, who else was involved, and what policies may apply. We even assist in filing claims, ensuring that everything is correctly filed and submitted on time, reducing the risk of delays and complications.
We offer the key services our clients need, from documenting the incident to coordinating with individual carriers and adjusters. Our goal as your trusted insurance provider in Pacific, MO, is to make your claims process as smooth and efficient as possible, so you can focus on your recovery while our insurance experts take care of the details.
Learn More About The Requirements for Winter Injury Claims for Worked At NEC Insurance
For more information on how to navigate whether to file a claim for workers’ compensation or personal injury for any of your winter injuries, please stop by or contact NEC Insurance in Pacific, MO today.
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NEC Insurance supports Missourians with high-quality coverage for businesses and individuals. We apply over 45 years of experience to help you navigate the market and deliver the policies you deserve.