For many people, a steady full-time job is their main professional goal. They want the benefits and stability that come from working consistently at the same company. Others may only need seasonal or part-time employment. They may have already retired, may have a full-time job or may devote most of their energy towards caring for their families because they have a spouse who works full-time.
Those working seasonal or part-time jobs may enjoy flexible scheduling and more time at home. Unfortunately, only working part-time does not eliminate the possibility of a job-acquired injury or an illness related to work responsibilities. Part-time workers can end up with major medical challenges caused by their work. Are they eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they get hurt as a seasonal or part-time employee?
Scheduling does not influence benefit eligibility
There are certain scenarios in which workers may not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If they are independent contractors rather than employees, they may not qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Likewise, casual employment may not be covered employment.
Workers also need to show that their conditions are a direct result of their employment. Getting hurt on the way to or from work usually does not make an employee eligible for workers’ compensation. However, getting hurt in the Employee’s designated parking lot or walking from the parking lot into work is usually covered as are injuries after clocking in for work.
Both injuries sustained at work and medical conditions acquired because of job responsibilities may be eligible for workers’ compensation coverage. Part-time or seasonal employees can qualify for the same medical benefits as those who are full-time, permanent employees at an organization.
They may even be able to receive disability benefits to replace a portion of their lost wages. If their medical issues affect their ability to work or force them into lower-paid jobs, they may be able to request disability benefits. Regardless of how long someone has been with a company or how many hours they work, they could be eligible for benefits after getting hurt at work.
Those in unusual work arrangements may have more challenging workers’ compensation claims ahead of them. Learning more about the rules that govern benefits can help workers get the assistance they need when an injury at work requires medical care or affects their employment.
