Many people have questions about whether they are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. The basic triggers under Iowa law require that you establish that you were actually an employee and that you sustained an injury that arose out of and in the course of your employment. If you have established these facts, you are entitled to workers’ compensation under Iowa law. The types of compensation and the degree of compensation to which you are entitled are separate matters. However, with the above facts proven, you will be entitled to at least medical benefits. If you miss more than three days from work or have a permanent condition following your injury, you will be entitled to weekly compensation.
Occasionally, some employers will incorrectly inform their injured workers that they do not qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. They will make this determination based on the fact that the injured worker has not followed some internal company policy with regard to reporting the injury, with regard to pursuing medical treatment, or various other misconceptions about Iowa law. It is also important to note that Iowa workers’ compensation law is a no-fault system. Therefore, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits even if it was not the employer’s unsafe actions that caused your injury. There are many routes to full compensation that an attorney with experience can help you obtain. If you are unsure as to whether you are entitled to benefits or want a better understanding of what benefits may be available to you, contacting a workers’ compensation attorney experienced with these issues will, at a minimum, provide you useful information at no charge, and at best will produce a meaningful amount of compensation for you and your family.