Working from home has become more common, but workplace injuries can still happen outside a traditional office. If you get hurt while working remotely in California, you may still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Understanding your rights and how these claims work is important.
Does workers’ compensation cover remote workers?
Yes, California law covers remote employees under workers’ compensation if the injury happens while performing job-related duties. This means if you trip over a work-related item, develop repetitive stress injuries, or experience an accident during work hours, you may have a valid claim. The key factor is proving the injury occurred while performing work tasks.
What challenges exist for remote workers?
One of the biggest challenges remote employees face is proving their injury was work-related. Unlike an office setting, where surveillance cameras or witnesses might confirm an accident, remote workers must rely on medical records, timestamps, and sometimes even home office setups to support their claims. Employers may challenge claims by arguing the injury happened during personal time, so detailed documentation is essential.
What types of injuries are covered?
Common injuries covered for remote workers include carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain from poor ergonomics, and slip-and-fall accidents. If your job involves video calls or typing for extended periods, repetitive strain injuries could also qualify. Psychological stress-related claims may be harder to prove but could still be considered under specific circumstances.
How can remote workers strengthen a claim?
To strengthen a workers’ compensation claim, document everything. Keep records of work hours, emails, and any incidents leading to an injury. Take photos if a physical accident occurs, and seek medical attention immediately. Employers may request proof that your home environment met safety standards, so maintaining a dedicated workspace can help.
California protects remote workers under the same workers’ compensation laws as on-site employees. If an injury happens while performing job-related duties, you may qualify for benefits.