The Minnesota workers’ compensation program covers injuries you sustain on the job, whether you are a full-time, part-time or seasonal employee. To be eligible, you must be a W-2 employee having taxes withheld from your wages. Independent contractors are not eligible.
Minnesota has a no-fault system, which means that an employee doesn’t have to prove employer negligence was the cause of the injury. Nor can an employer use employee negligence to avoid paying the claim. Workers’ compensation provides three types of benefits, including lost wages, medical benefits and vocational rehabilitation, subject to a waiting period.
Can I still sue my employer?
When you receive workers’ compensation benefits, you typically forfeit the right to sue your employer. If they deny your claim, however, litigation may still be an option. Workers’ compensation doesn’t cover every injury, such as an intentional workplace accident or one that occurs while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
What if they deny my claim?
If the insurer denies your claim, there are several ways to ask for a review. Talking to the claims adjuster and explaining the finer points of the situation may get them to change their decision. If that doesn’t work, you can contact the Department of Labor and Industry to request an alternate dispute resolution specialist or request a hearing.
In Minnesota, any company that employs at least one person must have a workers’ compensation insurance policy or self-insure. On-the-job accidents can be devastating, but workers’ comp can cover everything from an injury that causes you to miss a couple of days of work to one that leads to total disability. Fortunately, you can receive economic as well as medical resources to help you get back on the job as soon as possible.