Slip and fall accidents happen in an instant, but their consequences can last for months or even years. If you’ve been injured in a workplace slip and fall in Minnesota, you’re probably wondering when and whether you can file for workers’ compensation for your injuries.
Here’s the short answer:
You can file for workers’ compensation immediately after any slip and fall accident that happens at work, during work hours, or while performing work-related duties. You have up to 30 days to report the injury to your employer and up to three years to file your claim.
The success of your claim depends on how quickly you act. Acting quickly protects your rights and strengthens your case. With a work injury lawyer near Minnesota by your side, your chances of success go up dramatically.
Here’s what you need to know about filing for compensation after a slip and fall accident at work.
When Workplace Slip and Falls Qualify for Workers’ Compensation
Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system covers injuries that happen “arising out of and in the course of employment.” This legal phrase means your slip and fall must be connected to your work and occur during work time or on work premises.
Most workplace slip and fall accidents easily meet this standard. If you slip on a wet floor in your office building, trip over equipment in a warehouse, or fall downstairs at your workplace, you’re likely covered. The key is that the accident happened while you were performing work duties or were present at work for work-related reasons.
Even accidents during work breaks or while using workplace facilities like restrooms or break rooms typically qualify for coverage. The location and timing matter more than the specific activity you were doing when the fall occurred.
Common Causes of Workplace Slip and Fall Accidents
Understanding common causes helps you recognize when your employer might be liable for creating unsafe conditions:
- Wet or slippery floors from spills, cleaning activities, or weather conditions tracked indoors
- Uneven surfaces, including loose carpeting, damaged flooring, or broken pavement
- Poor lighting in stairwells, hallways, or work areas that obscures hazards
- Cluttered walkways with electrical cords, equipment, or improperly stored materials
- Weather-related hazards like ice on walkways or wet entrances during Minnesota winters
- Inadequate warning signs for temporary hazards or maintenance areas
Injuries That Result From Workplace Falls
Slip and fall accidents can cause surprisingly serious injuries, even when the fall seems minor initially:
- Broken bones in wrists, ankles, hips, or arms from trying to break the fall
- Head injuries and concussions from striking the ground or objects during the fall
- Back and spinal injuries from the jarring impact of hitting hard surfaces
- Soft tissue damage, including sprains, strains, and deep bruising
- Knee and shoulder injuries that can require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation
Many of these injuries have symptoms that don’t appear immediately after the accident, which is why seeking prompt medical attention is crucial.
Critical Deadlines for Filing Your Claim
Time is crucial when dealing with workplace slip and fall accidents in Minnesota:
- Report immediately: Tell your employer about the accident as soon as possible, ideally the same day
- 30-day reporting deadline: You must notify your employer within 30 days of the injury
- Three-year filing deadline: You have up to three years to file your workers’ compensation claim
- Medical care timeline: Seek medical attention within the first few days for the strongest claim
Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your entire claim, so don’t wait to take action.
Why You Need Experienced Legal Help
Insurance adjusters often contact injured workers quickly after accidents, hoping to get statements that can be used against them later. Having a skilled work injury lawyer near Minnesota on your side protects you from these tactics and ensures your rights are preserved.
As workplace injury lawyers in Minnesota, we understand the tactics insurance companies use to deny slip and fall claims. We know how to gather evidence, work with medical experts, and build strong cases that stand up to scrutiny.
We’ve handled countless slip and fall cases and understand the unique challenges these claims can present. From proving the dangerous condition existed to demonstrating how your injuries affect your ability to work, we know how to build compelling cases.
Take Action and Protect Your Rights
Time limits apply to workers’ compensation claims in Minnesota, so don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you file your claim with a work injury lawyer near Minnesota, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
Have you slipped and fallen on the job and are being denied workers’ compensation benefits? Contact our workplace injury lawyers in Minnesota today to schedule a consultation and start your comeback journey.
Have you slipped and fallen on the job and are being denied workers’ compensation benefits? Contact our workplace injury lawyers in Minnesota today to schedule a consultation and start your comeback journey.