Understanding Workers’ Compensation for Temporary Workers and Interns
As a Memphis workers’ compensation lawyer with over 40 years of experience, I’ve seen the challenges of navigating workers’ comp for temps and interns. Fortunately, I’ve also been able to help a ton of people in both of these situations get the workers’ comp they need.
Many people believe that only full-time, permanent employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, but that’s not the case. Temporary workers and interns have the same rights as other employees when it comes to work-related injuries.
Here’s what temporary workers and interns need to know about workers’ compensation and on-the-job injuries.
Temporary Workers Are Entitled to Workers’ Compensation
One of the biggest misconceptions about temp workers is they aren’t entitled to workers’ compensation.
If you’re injured while performing job duties, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. And that’s true even if you’re a temp working for a staffing agency or a seasonal worker.
The key is the injury has to have occurred in the course of your work. So, if you’re hurt on the job, don’t hesitate to file a claim—even if you’re only working for a limited time.
Interns Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation
Some interns believe they aren’t eligible for workers’ comp because they aren’t paid or don’t have a permanent position, but that’s not true.
In Tennessee, workers’ compensation law applies to most individuals working under any employer-employee relationship, regardless of whether they’re paid or not. This includes interns.
If you’re injured while performing tasks for your internship, you could be entitled to medical benefits, wage replacement, and other workers’ compensation benefits. Don’t assume your unpaid or temporary status means you’re not covered.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits Everyone
As you navigate an on-the-job injury keep in mind that workers’ comp protects both the employees and their employers.
After all, if you get injured on the job and workers’ comp doesn’t cover the cost, you may have a negligence lawsuit on your hands. That could potentially cost the employer much more in the long run.
So it benefits everyone for workers’ comp to cover any on-the-job injuries – including temps, interns, and seasonal workers.
Reporting Your Injuries for Workers’ Comp
Just like regular employees, if you’re injured on the job, you need to notify your employer or supervisor immediately. If you don’t report the injury promptly, it could affect your eligibility for workers’ comp benefits.
Be sure to document what happened and, if possible, seek medical attention right away. The sooner you file your claim, the better your chances of securing the benefits you deserve.
Who Is Responsible for Coverage?
Whether you’re a temp, intern, or full-time employee, the employer or the staffing agency that places you is responsible for providing workers’ compensation coverage.
In some cases, staffing agencies may be responsible for managing your workers’ compensation claim, if they are your direct employer. However, it might also fall on the company managing your work on site.
It’s important to clarify who is handling your claim early on so you know where to direct your inquiries. Our Memphis workers’ compensation lawyers can help you sort out the details and make sure you’re receiving the right support.
Legal Help with Workers’ Comp for Temps and Interns
If you’re unsure whether your employer or staffing agency is responsible for your claim, or if you’re facing complications, don’t worry. In many cases, the process can be confusing, especially when dealing with additional contracts for temporary workers or interns.
But don’t let that stop you from seeking the benefits you’re entitled to.
Our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers can make sure you pursue the right claim. We help navigate workers’ comp for temps and interns. And we don’t get paid unless and until we win your case.
If you need help navigating the process or have questions about your rights, reach out to our Memphis workers’ compensation team today. We’re here to help make sure you get the support and compensation you deserve.