For those seeking workers' compensation payments, it is clear that the injury has to be connected to the employment in some fashion. In fact, employers will sometimes counter claims if they think a person was really injured at home and is only saying it happened at work to get this compensation. There are a few ways that employees can show that their injures wouldn't have happened if not for their jobs.
Of course, the most common claim is that an injury happened at work. A construction worker could fall on the job site, for example, or a line worker could be injured by a machine in the warehouse.
Typically, injuries while driving to work or driving home from work won't be covered, unless driving is part of your job -- if you're a truck driver, for example. If you're involved in an accident and hurt on company property, though, you may be covered.
Injuries on company property could lead to compensation even if you're not driving. For instance, if you slip and fall on an icy sidewalk while walking to the door to report for work, you could be compensated. You're not technically doing your job yet, but the injury is still tied closely to your employment.
You can be compensated if you've left company property but are still doing your job. If your boss tells you to go pick up more supplies at the store, for instance, and you're hurt in some way -- perhaps in a traffic accident -- it is still a work-related incident.
If you have been injured, it pays to know your right to compensation. This may cover medical costs, lost wages and more.
Source: Wisconsin Worker's Compensation Guide, "State of Wisconsin Division of Worker's Compensation," accessed Oct. 04, 2016