Temporary or contract employees often have questions about workers’ compensation coverage. While they may not be permanent staff, temporary workers are typically entitled to protection if they are injured on the job. At MHK Attorneys, we help temporary workers navigate workers’ comp claims, ensuring they receive the benefits they are legally entitled to.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation for Temporary Employees

Workers’ compensation provides coverage for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes medical treatment, lost wages, and rehabilitation services. Temporary employees, like those hired through staffing agencies, can qualify for workers’ comp benefits, but the process can be more complex than for permanent employees.

Key factors include:

• Employment classification: Determining whether the worker is an employee of the staffing agency or the company where they work

• Injury circumstances: The injury must occur during the scope of employment, such as on-site work, job-related travel, or while performing assigned duties

• State-specific laws: Workers’ comp eligibility varies by state, and certain jurisdictions have specific rules for temporary workers

Who is Responsible for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim?

When a temporary worker is injured, responsibility for workers’ compensation coverage may fall to:

• Staffing agency/employer of record: Often responsible for filing the initial claim and providing coverage

• Host employer (placement company): May share liability if negligence or unsafe working conditions contributed to the injury

Understanding who is responsible is critical for ensuring timely claims and receiving the appropriate benefits. MHK Attorneys can help temporary workers identify the correct party and navigate the filing process efficiently.

Common Injuries Covered for Temporary Workers

Temporary workers face a range of risks depending on their assignments. Workers’ compensation claims commonly cover:

• Slip and fall accidents in offices, warehouses, or construction sites

• Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel or tendonitis

• Accidents involving machinery or vehicles

• Exposure-related illnesses from chemicals, dust, or unsafe working conditions

Documenting injuries promptly and seeking medical care is essential to establishing a valid claim.

Steps Temporary Workers Should Take After an Injury

Taking immediate action can greatly improve the chances of a successful workers’ compensation claim. Temporary workers should:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries

2. Report the injury to both the staffing agency and host employer

3. Document the incident, including photos, witness statements, and work logs

4. Keep records of medical visits, prescriptions, lost wages, and related expenses

5. Consult a qualified attorney experienced with temporary worker claims

Following these steps ensures that temporary workers protect their legal rights and maximize the benefits they are entitled to.

Benefits Temporary Workers Can Receive

If a workers’ compensation claim is approved, temporary workers may be eligible for:

• Medical coverage: Hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatment

• Lost wage replacement: Compensation for time off work during recovery

• Rehabilitation services: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or vocational retraining

• Permanent disability benefits: If injuries result in long-term limitations

The exact benefits depend on the severity of the injury, employment classification, and state-specific workers’ compensation laws.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Temporary workers often face challenges filing claims due to multiple employers and complex liability issues. Hiring an experienced attorney ensures:

• Correct filing of workers’ compensation claims

• Accurate determination of the responsible employer

• Protection against claim denials or delays

• Maximum recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages

At MHK Attorneys, we provide temporary workers with expert guidance, helping them navigate every step of the workers’ comp process with confidence.

Conclusion

Temporary workers are not excluded from workers’ compensation benefits. Knowing your rights, documenting injuries promptly, and seeking legal guidance are essential for a successful claim.

Contact MHK Attorneys today to schedule a consultation. Our team helps temporary employees understand their eligibility, file claims correctly, and secure the benefits they deserve after a workplace injury.