If you have been injured in the workplace, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation can help you to pay for all of your medical costs, and can also help to cover some of the wages that you have lost as a result of being injured.
However, before you file for a workers’ compensation claim, you should be aware that the law on workers’ compensation varies from state to state. Therefore, if you work in Alaska, take the time to understand the specific laws that apply to the state. The following is a short breakdown of the workers’ compensation laws in Alaska.
The time limits for filing a claim in Alaska
You will need to formally report your injury by informing your employer in writing within 30 days. If your insurer denies you benefits, you will then have two years to file a claim. You must make sure that you inform your employer in the correct way, because if you do not you may not be able to successfully gain compensation.
The workers who are covered by workers’ compensation in Alaska
Most workers in Alaska are covered by workers’ compensation. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Seasonal workers and commercial fishermen are not covered by workers’ compensation. In addition, you will not be able to gain back damages for a work injury if you are a cleaner, part-time babysitter or a contracted entertainer.
There is a cap to the maximum compensation you can gain
The compensation rate for lost wages is calculated by establishing your gross weekly earnings. Regardless of your earnings, the maximum compensation rate is 120% of the Alaska Average Weekly Wage (AAWW).
If you have been injured while at work in Alaska, it is important that you ensure that you get the compensation that you deserve. To do this, take early action to stand up for your rights and make sure that you understand the law in full.
