Generally workers' compensation covers almost any work-related injury, so there are many incidents that occur while an employee is working away from their specific place of employment that will be covered.
In Kansas workers' comp law, the law is worded somewhat strictly. An employer must report any injury that even partially incapacitates an employee for more than the day, shift, or turn the employee is working. This definition could confuse employees and employers over business-related accidents which occur in non-traditional business hours, but as long as an employee is on the job they should be covered, even if their job takes them off their business site.
In Missouri workers' comp, working hours are fairly fluid. An employee is defined as anyone who is has entered into a contract with you, even if the contract is implied, as well as anyone under any appointment or election with a company. That includes board members.
Because of this definition, outside functions that you're required to attend may be covered by workers’ comp, including conferences, training events, and board meetings.
With the Missouri laws, an injury that occurs while an employee is working with a third-party vendor can be a bit confusing, and it may be difficult to determine which business is legally responsible to cover an employee’s injuries. In situations where there is a question as to who is legally responsible, it's important to remember that you can only receive workers’ compensation from one source.
In both states, employees who work from home or telecommute may have a hard time determining who is liable for an injury, since home and work time can become blurred; but in general if you can prove your injury is work-related, it will still be covered.
If you have a workplace injury in Kansas City and need to file a workers' comp claim, call us today at 816-842-7100. Or you can click here to email us and schedule your free consultation.