Whether your teen has just started a summer job or has been in the part-time or seasonal workforce for a while, it’s important that they (and you) know about their right to workers’ comp benefits if they’re injured on the job. Many parents don’t realize that minors are entitled to the same benefits as adults – and many teens don’t even know about workers’ comp.
California has one of the more comprehensive workers’ comp systems in the country. Almost all employers are required to carry workers’ comp insurance. Further, part-time and temporary workers typically have as much right to it as those who work full-time. Workers’ comp benefits cannot be denied due to an employee’s immigration status, either.
Teen workers’ rights in California
Teen workers need to know that workers’ comp is, for the most part, considered “no-fault” insurance. Unless an employee was intentionally or recklessly endangering themselves or was under the influence, they can’t be denied benefits, even if they had some responsibility for it. Further, employers are required to give workers a claim form if they request one. They also can’t retaliate against them (for example, by cutting their hours or firing them) for filing a claim.
Of course, it’s far preferable that teens are not injured in the first place. That’s one reason the state restricts what kinds of jobs teens of various ages can do and what hours they can work. Further, employers need to provide teens with at least the same level of safety training and equipment as other employees do.
If your teen has suffered a work-related injury or illness, don’t let anyone in their workplace mislead them or give them false information about their right to workers’ comp. If you have questions or concerns, getting legal guidance can help.