As an Alabama worker, you have the right to a safe work environment. However, despite all precautions taken, an accident can happen at any time, resulting in serious injuries and medical expenses. Fortunately, Alabama has laws that protect workers from work-related injuries, regardless of their legal status.
On the one hand, there is the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA), which states:
“To ensure safe and healthy working conditions for workers and authorize enforcement of the standards developed under this Act, assisting and encouraging the States in their efforts to provide safe and healthful working conditions. This is done by providing research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health.”*
OSHA contains specific regulations to ensure workers’ well-being. However, there are situations in which the employer may not respect them, and that is when the employee could potentially suffer an accident.
This is where the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Law comes in, which establishes that if a worker suffers an injury at work, he or she is entitled to compensation for their injuries, regardless of who is at fault for the accident.
This is known as a no-fault compensation system. It is critical to note that this system covers most employers in Alabama, but has its limitations (read more).
If your employer is covered by the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Law and you suffer a work-related injury, you must report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer must report the injury to their workers’ compensation insurer within five business days of the accident. If your employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, you may need to file a claim against your employer directly.
Once the claim has been filed, the employer and their insurer will have to investigate the injury to determine your eligibility as a worker for the benefits. If you’re eligible, you’ll be entitled to receive medical benefits and income replacement. Medical benefits include necessary health care to treat the injury and any necessary treatment. Income replacement benefits are weekly payments intended to replace lost income due to an injury.
If your employer or insurer denies your claim, you may appeal. It is extremely imperative to note that it is recommended and necessary to hire a workers’ compensation attorney to assist you with your claim.
Both the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Law protect workers who suffer injuries at work. Remember, if you are eligible, you can receive medical benefits and income replacement to pay for medical expenses.
If you have questions about your rights as an injured worker in Alabama, contact us immediately, as we are attorneys specializing in workers’ compensation. At Abogados Centro Legal, we are here to serve you, and we assure you that we will fight to get the compensation you deserve. If you require more information, you can contact us at 205 940 2233 or schedule a free consultation.
