Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has become a normal part of life for thousands of Californians. While working from home offers flexibility and convenience, it also raises an important question: What happens if you’re injured during work hours at home?
Contrary to what some believe, work comp benefits are not limited to injuries that happen in a traditional office. In many cases, injuries sustained while working remotely can still be covered – provided they meet the legal definition of a work-related injury under California law.
While qualified workers’ compensation lawyers from San Bernardino can ensure your claim is handled properly, it still pays to familiarize yourself with your rights under California law. Luckily, that’s what this guide is all about, so let’s dive in and explore.
What happens if you get hurt while working from home?
In California, workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. If an injury occurs in the course and scope of your employment, you may be entitled to benefits, regardless of where the injury happened. This means your home can be considered an extension of the workplace during your assigned work hours.
For example:
- If you trip over a cord while walking to grab work-related documents from your printer, that could be considered a workplace injury.
- If you develop chronic back pain from sitting in an improperly set-up workstation, you may have a valid claim.
However, there are limits. If you are injured while on a personal break (e.g., such as walking your dog or lifting weights in your home gym), those activities are generally not covered.
What is the most common cause of injury when working from home?
While work-from-home injuries may not involve heavy machinery or construction hazards, they are surprisingly common. Some of the most frequent include:
- Ergonomic injuries: Poor workstation setups can cause neck strain, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other repetitive stress injuries.
- Slip-and-falls: Tripping over office equipment, tangled cords, or clutter while moving between tasks.
- Lifting injuries: Strains or sprains from moving heavy boxes of work materials or setting up equipment.
- Eye strain & headaches: Prolonged computer use without proper lighting or breaks.
- Stress-related conditions: Anxiety, depression, or burnout caused by extended work hours and blurred home/work boundaries.
How to document a remote work injury?
Documentation is critical to winning a workers’ compensation claim for a remote injury. Here are steps to strengthen your case:
- Report the injury immediately: Notify your employer as soon as possible, even if the injury seems minor.
- Seek medical attention: Get a professional evaluation and make sure the doctor notes that the injury is work-related.
- Take photos: Document your home workspace and any hazards that contributed to the injury.
- Gather witnesses: If anyone else in your household saw the accident or can confirm your work activities, note their statements.
- Keep work records: Save emails, time logs, or meeting notes showing you were working when the injury happened.
Challenges in remote work claims
Remote work claims can be more difficult for insurance companies to evaluate because there’s no supervisor or security footage to verify the incident. Employers or insurers might argue that the injury occurred during non-work activities. This is why clear documentation and medical evidence are essential.
Why should you consult a lawyer?
Even if you have a strong case, navigating the workers’ comp process on your own can be overwhelming. An experienced California workers’ compensation attorney can:
- Explain your rights and eligibility for benefits
- Collect and organize the evidence needed to prove your claim
- Communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf
- Represent you in hearings if your claim is denied
Who are the leading workers’ compensation lawyers near me in San Bernardino?
If you’ve been hurt while working from home, prompt action is critical. Turn to qualified specialists from California Workers’ Compensation Lawyers, APC, to protect your rights and ensure your claim is handled properly from start to finish.
Our comprehensive knowledge of California law also extends to emerging and evolving issues, such as workers’ compensation protections for heat-related illness, the expanded presumptions for first responders and essential workers, and the legal implications of workplace violence.
Whether you’re in the San Bernardino area or any of the neighboring counties, we provide the guidance you need to protect your rights and benefits – so don’t wait. Get in touch with us today and secure a legal team that puts your well-being first!
