Frequently Asked Questions about Iowa Workers’ Compensation Law

Iowa workers’ compensation law is designed to help workers get the assistance they need when they are injured on the job. As with any legal arena, however, it is understandable to have confusion about what these rules cover. Below is a brief question-and-answer segment, inspired but what is frequently brought up during consultations for legal services.

Is Workers’ Compensation Required for All Types of Employment?

Workers’ compensation insurance is required for almost every business in the state. The insurance provides the benefits that people receive after their claims have been approved. Certain categories of employment, however, are exempt from this requirement. They include, but are not limited to:

 

•           People Working for a Relative

•           Exchange Labor in Agriculture

•           Police Officers and Firefighters Entitled to Benefits from a Pension Fund

•           Federal Employees Entitled to Benefits under Any Rule of Liability or Method of Compensation, Established by the United State Congress

Are Iowa Business Owners Required to Be Included under Their Own Workers’ Comp Policy?

If you are a business owner, your ownership status determines if you need to enroll in the policy you have chosen for employees. You may be exempt from workers’ compensation coverage if you are a sole proprietor (independent contractor, or if you are a partner who is actively engaged in the owner’s business full-time. Members of limited liability companies are also exempt.

Getting injured on the job can bring about a period of uncertainty. If you have been hurt at work, it is crucial to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible and file a claim. Consulting with an Iowa workers’ compensation attorney can also be a prudent course of action if you doubt that your employer will treat you fairly.

When to Hire an Iowa Workers’ Compensation Attorney

 

Being injured on the job can be a harrowing experience. It isn’t enough that you may be missing out on work—your way of life might also be threatened. State laws mandate that employers must compensate their employees in case they are injured on the job. However, there might be situations where you may need to file for workers’ compensation and the result is not what you expected. When such a thing happens, it may be time to call an Iowa workers' compensation attorney. Consider the following factors first.

 

Is Your Injury Serious and Permanent?

Your employer’s insurance company will always try to give you the bare minimum as compensation. Therefore, you need to determine whether your injury is serious and will impede your quality of life in the future. The benefits you get for your injury need to account for the extra expenses and needs you will have. Injuries to the chest, shoulder, head, and spine tend to have long-lasting consequences. If you feel like you are not getting what you are owed, it might be time to call a workers’ compensation lawyer.

 

Was Your Claim Denied?

All too often, an employer’s insurance company will deny a workers’ compensation claim for arbitrary reasons. Remember, insurance providers are still businesses—and their primary objective is to prioritize their interests. Never take a denied claim at face value. Iowa workers’ compensation law covers a variety of situations, including pre-existing conditions that have worsened due to work. Your employer may also impose arbitrary deadlines on reporting injuries that don’t comply with the law.

You have options when it comes to receiving your workers’ compensation benefits. Fight for them. Before taking legal action, consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. They can assess your case and help you determine the best possible course of action.