If you have been injured on the job in Virginia, workers' compensation laws may entitle you to certain benefits. These benefits can include payment of medical bills, compensation while you're unable to work, vocational rehabilitation, permanent partial disability benefits, or total disability benefits. Your Virginia employer's workers' compensation insurance is responsible for paying these benefits.
In Virginia, workers' compensation coverage begins on your first day of employment, regardless of whether you are a part-time or full-time employee. You may still be eligible for Virginia workers' compensation benefits even if you were an independent contractor or a cash employee.
Injuries typically covered by Virginia workers' comp include:
Virginia workers' compensation laws can be complicated. A Virginia workers' compensation attorney in your area can explain to you the application process and help you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.
Although your benefits may vary depending on what state or federal law applies, workers injured on the job--regardless of whether your employer was at fault--may be entitled to benefits that include:
If you receive Virginia workers' compensation following an injury, you cannot sue your Virginia employer for additional compensation in connection with your injury. You may, however, be able to file a lawsuit against others involved in your injury. For example, if you were injured in an automobile accident while working and the other driver was at fault, you might be able to sue the other driver. Or if your injury was the result of a defective machine, you might be able to sue the machine manufacturer. A Virginia workers' compensation lawyer can advise you of your legal options.
If you're injured while at work or develop a job-related occupational disease in Virginia, you should promptly seek medical treatment. Make sure to tell the doctor that your injury occurred on the job or in connection with your job.
Notify your employer of the injury or disease as soon as possible.
Your Virginia workers' compensation claim will be filed with the Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission.
Once you've sought medical treatment for your injury or disease, you should consider contacting a Virginia workers' comp lawyer to help guide you through the process of applying for Virginia workers' compensation.
Federal government employees working in Virginia, as well as Virginia residents who worked on nuclear weapons, maritime workers, and coal miners would be covered under one of several federal workers' compensation programs.
Virginia workers' compensation information for employees
Virginia workers' compensation forms
Virginia workers' compensation frequently asked questions
The U.S. Department of Labor's Workers' Compensation information page for federal government employees
The U.S. Department of Labor's summary of major labor laws
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration's summary of workers' rights
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