This is a question that many employers and insurance companies are grappling with. Currently, there is no clear answer, but under certain circumstances COVID-19 may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Given the widespread nature of the coronavirus, it can be difficult to prove where someone became infected. However, if you are working in a profession in which you come in close daily contact with those infected, it may be possible to prove that “more likely than not” you contracted the illness at work. Those professions would include, for example, healthcare professionals, nursing home workers, and first responders.
Given the seriousness of COVID-19 and the long lasting effects that this disease may have on heart and lung function, if you believe you were infected at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits could include payments if you had to be out of work, as well as coverage for medical treatment. Workers’ compensation also provides death benefits if a loved one has passed due to a COVID-19 infection and it is found to be work-related.
If you, your family, or your loved ones have been impacted by this serious illness and you believe it was contracted due to the nature of your work, please give our office a call and we will be happy to assist you.