Your Rights After a Work Injury in Minnesota

A work injury can leave you feeling uncertain about what comes next. Fortunately, Minnesota law provides protections for workers who suffer injuries or illnesses connected to their employment, and consulting a workers’ compensation lawyer in Minneapolis can help you understand these rules. Knowing what you are entitled to—and how to secure it—can make all the difference in your recovery journey. 

Who Is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in Minnesota?

If you work for an employer in Minnesota, you likely qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. All employers with at least one employee are required to carry this insurance, whether they are full-time or part-time. 

That said, not every worker falls under the system’s umbrella. Independent contractors, for instance, are generally excluded from coverage. The same applies to certain agricultural workers and casual employees who perform work on an irregular basis outside the employer’s usual business operations.

If you are unsure whether your work arrangement qualifies, or if you have been told you fall into one of these excluded categories, a Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your legal options.

What Types of Work Injuries Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation?

You can file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits if you suffer an injury, illness, or psychological condition that is directly connected to your job duties or workplace conditions. Qualifying injuries generally fall into these categories:

• Acute physical injuries that occur during a workplace accident, such as broken bones from a fall
• Repetitive strain injuries caused by performing the same motions over an extended period
• Occupational illnesses that develop due to ongoing exposure to workplace hazards
• Mental health injuries that stem from an extraordinary, traumatic workplace event or unusually severe stress

What Benefits Are You Eligible to Recover After a Work Injury?

If your claim is approved, you can recover compensation for several categories of benefits. These include:

• Medical benefits: Your claim covers all reasonably necessary treatment tied to your injury, including physician visits, surgical procedures, prescription medications, and physical therapy.
• Temporary wage replacement: If your injury keeps you from working, you may receive temporary disability benefits, typically calculated at two-thirds of your average weekly earnings.
• Permanent disability payments: If your injury results in a lasting impairment, you may be entitled to ongoing payments that account for the long-term impact on your earning capacity and quality of life.

What Happens If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?

Sometimes, your workers’ compensation claim may be denied. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as missing documentation or disputes over whether the injury is work-related. Whatever the reason, Minnesota law gives you the right to challenge the decision.

The process begins by filing an Employee’s Claim Petition with the Department of Labor and Industry. If the initial appeal doesn’t go in your favor, the matter can proceed to a formal hearing before a workers’ compensation judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings. If the judge upholds the denial, you can appeal to the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals.

Discuss Your Case with a Minnesota Work Injury Attorney Today

If you suffered a work injury in Minnesota, you have rights that deserve protection—but not everyone has your best interests in mind. At Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer, your well-being and financial recovery are our top priority. We will advocate for your fair compensation every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how our Minnesota workers’ compensation attorneys can fight for your future.