Missouri workers' compensation will cover any injury or illness that arises in the workplace if it is something that has occurred by performing the duties of your job. This may include injuries from falls and burns, traumatic injuries, repetitive motion injuries, and occupational diseases. Workers' comp benefits are paid regardless of fault, and employers are required to have workers' comp insurance when they have 5 or more employees, or 1 or more employee when in the construction industry.
In Missouri, workers' comp benefits are provided for those who suffer injuries while performing their work duties. This may include traumatic physical injuries like lacerations, burns, broken bones, and spinal injuries that occur when there is a sudden workplace accident.
The coverage also extends to those who have repetitive stress injuries that develop over time. Carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis are a couple examples of these kinds of injuries that are covered by Missouri workers' compensation.
Those who are exposed in the workplace may have occupational diseases or conditions that develop through the course of working in their jobs. Hearing loss, radiation disability, or exposure to illnesses in healthcare are prime examples. The Missouri Workers' Compensation Laws: Complete Guide provides additional information.
Injured workers should understand that while they can be at fault for their own injuries in the workplace, they will still be covered by workers' comp with only a few exceptions. If your injuries were caused because you were intoxicated or using illegal drugs, you will be denied coverage. Additionally, if you got hurt because you were engaged in horseplay, voluntarily harmed yourself, or from non-work activities, these are not covered either.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Missouri workers’ compensation reporting requirements?
Injured workers in Missouri are required to notify their employer of the injury within 30 days. A claim must also be filed with the Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation within two years of your injury. When is an employer required to have workers' comp in Missouri? In construction, an employer must have this coverage if they have 1 or more employees while in other industries, they must have it if they have 5 or more employees. If your employer does not have this legally required coverage, The Bruning Law Firm's St. Louis workers' comp attorneys help you understand your rights and options for pursuing the compensation you deserve.
How are repetitive strain injuries covered if they take years to develop?
Under Missouri law, these types of injuries are classified as occupational diseases. This means that the injury can be compensated if the job duties you carried out were the prevailing factor that created this condition. It can be tricky to prove these injuries are related to your job, though our attorneys have deep knowledge of state workers' comp laws and know how to create a strong claim.
What types of benefits are available in a Missouri workers’ comp claim?
If you file a Missouri workers' comp claim, you will receive benefits that fully cover your medical treatment for your injuries. If you are unable to work, you can get Temporary Total Disability (TTD) payments that provide partial coverage of your wages. There are benefits for permanent disability, vocational rehabilitation, and if an employee does not survive their injuries, their family members can receive death benefits. Can independent contractors get workers' comp in Missouri? No, but there may be a path forward with the help of St. Louis workers' comp attorneys.
Contact The Bruning Law Firm
The Bruning Law Firm helps injured workers in Missouri understand their rights and options when filing these claims to help ensure maximum benefits. There is no fee unless we win, so call our experienced St. Louis workers' comp lawyers at (314) 735-8100 today to schedule your free consultation.