Working in factories and warehouses can be challenging. The fast-paced environment demands constant attention. In the rush to get things done, employees may accidentally overlook a safety rule. Sometimes, this can be a harmless mistake. Unfortunately, at other times, it can result in serious injury. In such situations, you might worry about your right to file for workers’ compensation. Rest assured, in Minnesota, you can usually still file a claim.
What you need to know about the state’s no-fault system
Minnesota protects workers through a “no-fault” workers’ compensation system. This means you can receive benefits regardless of who caused the accident. Usually, it also means you remain covered even if you broke a safety protocol.
Under this system, you may receive several types of benefits:
- Medical benefits to cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses
- Wage-loss benefits if you’re unable to work due to your injury
- Vocational rehabilitation services if you need help returning to work
- Benefits for permanent disabilities
Most workplace injuries qualify for compensation under this system. This is especially true in settings with heavy machinery, forklifts, and high shelving, where injury risks increase.
However, the no-fault system does have a few exceptions. A person can’t claim benefits for injuries they inflicted on themselves intentionally. The court may also deny benefits if intoxication was the primary cause of the injury.
What should you keep in mind?
If you suffer a workplace injury:
- Report the injury to your employer immediately
- Seek medical attention promptly
- Document the incident and your injury carefully
Following these steps can help ensure a smoother claims process. Moreover, explain what happened truthfully, even if you broke a safety rule like not wearing protective gear or operating machinery without proper training. Lying or hiding information can jeopardize your claim and potentially lead to legal issues.
Take note that while you can file a claim, your employer might still take disciplinary action for breaking safety rules, depending on your specific situation. This disciplinary process remains separate from the workers’ comp claim.
Seek the clarity you need
Feeling uncertain about your claim due to a safety rule oversight? An attorney can assess your situation and help you understand your rights.
