Have you recently been injured at work and found yourself wondering if being at fault for your injury disqualifies you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits? You’re not alone. Each day, 860,000 people experience an injury on the job globally. However, in the US, many of the injured are unsure whether their compensation options change if the injury was their fault.

In fact, many workers in Glenn, CA, and across the nation worry that their own actions might cost them the benefits they deserve. But here’s the good news: in most cases, being at fault does not automatically disqualify you from workers’ compensation benefits.

If you find yourself in a situation like this, it’s crucial to understand your rights and what steps you should take next. That’s where the experienced team at The Law Offices of Harley Merritt comes in.

In this blog, we’ll clarify what workers’ compensation law means for those who are injured at work, even if they’re at fault. By the end, you’ll understand the rules around workers’ comp rights for fault for injury and how an attorney can help you navigate the claims process.

Can I Still Receive Workers’ Compensation if I’m At Fault?

One of the most common misconceptions about workers’ compensation is that you forfeit your right to benefits if you’re responsible for the injury. While fault may play a role in some legal cases, workers’ compensation benefits generally don’t depend on proving who is at fault. Here’s why:

  • Workers’ Compensation is a No-Fault System:Unlike lawsuits, where fault is a key factor in determining liability, workers’ compensation operates under a no-fault system. This means that, regardless of how the injury occurred, you’re still entitled to benefits as long as your injury happened while performing your job duties.
  • Benefits are Designed to Help Workers, Not Punish Them:Workers’ compensation is designed to provide financial relief for workers who are injured on the job. It helps cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. The goal is to ensure workers can get back to their lives without the added stress of figuring out who’s to blame for the accident.
  • Fault May Affect Other Legal Options:While being at fault does not affect your workers’ compensation claim, it could impact other legal options. For instance, if your injury was caused by negligence or recklessness on the part of a co-worker or employer, you might still have the right to pursue a third-party personal injury lawsuit in addition to your workers’ compensation claim.

Don’t Let Fault Stop You From Getting the Benefits You Deserve

Are you worried about being at fault for your work injury? It’s important to know that in most cases, your workers’ compensation rights are not affected by fault. If you need help with your claim, The Law Offices of Harley Merritt is here to assist. Our experienced team of workers’ comp lawyers in Glenn, CA, can help you understand your options and fight for the benefits you deserve.

If you’ve been injured at work, don’t hesitate to call (530) 894-3694 and contact our work injury law firm in Glenn, CA today. Let us take the burden off your shoulders and help you get the compensation you need to recover.