Seasonal employees, such as landscapers, retail employees, snow plow drivers, and others, may find it difficult to receive workers’ compensation from their employer if they are hurt on the job or in need of surgery. However, many jobs pose a risk of serious injury, and seasonal employees have rights just like full-time employees. At Harvey & Carpenter, we are here to help you understand your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Here are some things you should know about workers’ compensation for seasonal employees.
Workers’ Compensation for Seasonal Employees
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. In most states, employers are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance, and employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who was at fault for the injury. This includes seasonal employees, who are covered by the same laws and regulations as full-time employees.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you are a seasonal employee and are injured on the job, it is important to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. You should also seek medical attention right away, even if you think the injury is minor. Your employer should provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form, which you will need to fill out and submit to your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier. It is important to fill out the form accurately and completely, and to include all relevant information about your injury and how it occurred.
Eligible Benefits for Seasonal Workers
Seasonal workers are eligible for the same benefits as full-time employees when it comes to workers’ compensation. This includes:
- All reasonable medical expenses related to the injury
- Lost wages due to missing work during the season
- Disability benefits if the injury results in a permanent disability
- Vocational rehabilitation if the injury prevents the employee from returning to their previous job
Contact Harvey & Carpenter for a Free Case Evaluation
If you are a seasonal employee who has been injured on the job, it is important to understand your rights and get the compensation you deserve. At Harvey & Carpenter, we are here to help. Our experienced attorneys can provide you with a free case evaluation and help you navigate the workers’ compensation process. Contact us today at 507-779-7529 to schedule a consultation.
Types of Seasonal Work Injuries in Minnesota
Seasonal workers in Minnesota face unique hazards depending on their industry. Landscapers and agricultural workers are at risk for heat-related illnesses, repetitive motion injuries and equipment accidents during summer months. Snow plow drivers and winter maintenance workers face hazards from icy conditions, heavy equipment operation and long hours in extreme cold. Retail workers during the holiday season may suffer injuries from heavy lifting, slips and falls, and repetitive tasks.
Regardless of the type of seasonal work, Minnesota law requires employers to provide workers’ compensation coverage for all employees, including those hired on a temporary or seasonal basis.
Challenges Seasonal Workers Face with Claims
Seasonal employees sometimes face additional obstacles when filing workers’ compensation claims. Employers may argue that the worker was an independent contractor rather than an employee, that the injury occurred outside of work duties, or that the seasonal nature of the work means benefits should be limited. Some employers may not properly report seasonal workers to their insurance carrier.
These challenges make it especially important to document your employment relationship, keep records of your work schedule and duties, and report any injury immediately to your supervisor in writing.
Your Rights as a Seasonal Employee in Minnesota
Under Minnesota law, seasonal employees have the same workers’ compensation rights as full-time, year-round employees. This includes medical expense coverage, wage replacement benefits, and permanent partial disability benefits if applicable. Your wage replacement benefits are calculated based on your average weekly wage, which may include earnings from previous seasons if you work for the same employer regularly.
At Harvey & Carpenter, we understand the unique challenges seasonal workers face and have successfully represented many seasonal employees in Mankato and throughout Southern Minnesota. Contact us for a free consultation about your seasonal work injury.
