Workers’ compensation covers more than just work-related accidents. An increasing number of work-related illnesses are being approved by the courts to be covered under an employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. Examples of work-related illnesses include emotional illness, stress-related digestive problems, and inhalation illnesses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly three million non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses were reported in 2012.
Out of that number, only 5.2 percent accounted for work-related illnesses. To be covered under workers’ compensation, an illness must be caused by an employee’s job. Investigators look at what factors, both work, and non-work related, would have caused such an illness. Other causes investigators will look at include the employee’s diet, exercise frequency, smoking and drinking habits, and hobbies. If there is any possibility one of these could have contributed to the illness, your claim could be dismissed.
It is time to start exploring your options, especially if you feel you are getting ill due to something at your workplace or that is related to work-induced stress. Keep a journal of everything you do in a day, how you feel and what you eat. Document both work and personal activities. Include times, locations and who was present at the time of an incident or when you were not feeling good. This will help determine if there is a pattern causing your illness and help prove it could be work-related.
For more information, or help determining if your illness is work-related, contact Orlando personal injury lawyer. Many of your questions can be answered during your initial consultation.
