What If You Are Injured at Work in Jackson but Think the Accident Was Your Fault?

Workplace accidents can happen in Jackson in seconds. You might lose your balance while carrying equipment, lift something incorrectly, or make a mistake while operating machinery. If you are injured, you may worry that your employer will refuse to pay workers’ compensation benefits because the accident was your fault.

Fortunately, Mississippi workers’ compensation law typically does not require employees to prove that someone else caused their injuries. Here, we explain how Mississippi’s no-fault system works, when exceptions may apply, and how a Jackson workers’ compensation lawyer can help you.

Can You Receive Workers’ Compensation If You Caused Your Own Injury in Jackson?

Under Mississippi law, workers’ compensation is typically available for qualifying injuries arising out of and in the course of employment, regardless of fault. This means making an ordinary mistake does not necessarily prevent an injured Jackson worker from receiving benefits.

For example, suppose a worker accidentally trips while carrying supplies at work and suffers a serious knee injury. Even if no one else caused the fall, the worker may still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Jackson.

Are There Exceptions to Mississippi’s No-Fault Workers’ Compensation Rules?

Although Mississippi workers’ compensation typically covers qualifying workplace injuries regardless of fault, certain exceptions apply. For example, workers’ compensation benefits may be denied when specified drug use or alcohol intoxication was the proximate cause of the injury. Mississippi law addresses illegal drugs, misuse of prescribed medications, medical cannabis, and alcohol.

The law also excludes injuries resulting from an employee’s willful intention to injure or kill themselves or another person. However, these circumstances are different from making an ordinary mistake while performing your job.

If your employer claims an exception applies, a Jackson workers’ compensation lawyer can investigate the circumstances and help determine whether the denial is justified.

What Benefits Might Be Available After a Jackson Workplace Injury?

If your injury qualifies for workers’ compensation in Jackson, you may be entitled to benefits even if your own mistake contributed to the accident. Depending on your circumstances, benefits may include necessary medical treatment, partial wage replacement, and disability compensation if your injury affects your ability to work.

However, disagreements can arise over whether an injury was work-related, what treatment is necessary, or whether you can return to your job. Reporting your injury promptly, seeking appropriate medical attention, and consulting with an experienced Jackson workers’ compensation lawyer can help protect your claim.

How Can a Jackson Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help You?

Workers’ compensation claims can be confusing, especially when you are worried about your finances or believe you caused your own accident. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. An experienced Jackson workers’ compensation lawyer can review your claim, explain your rights, and help you pursue the medical and disability benefits you may be entitled to receive. An experienced Jackson workers’ compensation lawyer can also investigate disputed claims, challenge improper denials, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for you throughout the process.

The experienced Jackson workers’ compensation lawyers at Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC understand the challenges injured Jackson employees face. They are here to fight for injured Jackson workers. Contact Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC today and discuss your rights, options, and next steps now.