Kentucky workers’ compensation laws impact an employee’s ability to pursue benefits should an on-the-job accident occur. Unfortunately, many workers are unsure of their rights and whether they are entitled to receive compensation.
As a worker, it’s important to know your rights and whether you’re able to get compensation for the injuries sustained in a workplace injury. Below, we’ll detail who is considered “an employee,” who can pursue workers’ compensation benefits, and who is exempt from coverage.
Who is an Employee?
Employees on Kentucky’s workers’ comp list can receive benefits following a workplace injury, including medical treatment, temporary or permanent disabilities benefits, death benefits, mileage reimbursement, and vocational training. To be considered “an employee,” a worker must meet one of the following criterion:
Any person working under a contract for hire, either expressed or implied
Any volunteer firefighter
Any person who performs services in a business or trade profession
Any person who sells or delivers newspapers
Any executive officer of a corporation
Any city, county, or state employee
There are other factors that may come into play, so be sure to speak with an attorney regarding your rights.
Who is Exempt from Coverage?
Unfortunately, not every full time worker is entitled coverage under Kentucky’s workers’ compensation laws. The following individuals would be unable to pursue benefits for injuries they sustain, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have other legal rights in specific situations. Workers exempt from coverage include:
Agricultural employees and employers
Domestic workers in private homes for less than 40 hours a week
Employees covered by the Federal Act
Volunteer workers
Employees in certain charitable or religious organizations
If you are unsure of your ability to obtain workers’ compensation, you should speak with legal counsel who can help you understand your eligibility and your rights to move forward.
At Kentucky Injury Law Center, we’re committed to you and your best interests. Our Bowling Green workers’ compensation lawyers stand by your side every step of the way, pursuing the benefits you need to cover your losses after a workplace injury.
If you need help filing a workers’ compensation claim, we are here for you. If you’d like an experienced Bowling Green workers’ compensation lawyer from Kentucky Injury Law Center to evaluate your case, please give us a call at (270) 423-0023 or send us an email to speak with a member of our team.