Working from home has become an increasingly popular way to do business, but what happens when you get injured while working remotely? Many don’t realize that remote workers can still get workers’ compensation benefits for injuries they sustain while on the job. From carpal tunnel to back pain, there are plenty of common injuries that remote workers can suffer from, and these injuries should be taken seriously! If you’re a remote worker, understanding your rights and making sure you’re taking all necessary safety precautions will help you protect your health and ensure you’re receiving all the benefits you deserve.
In Conroy v. Ocean County Board of Social Services, an independent contractor was granted workers’ compensation benefits for a fall she suffered while working from her home office. The court found that since the plaintiff was working within the scope of her employer’s business, she was eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under the state’s Workers’ Compensation Act. The court reasoned that since the plaintiff was engaged in her employer’s business and within the scope of her employment, the injury was compensable. This case underscores the importance of understanding the potential risks of remote work and the rights of injured workers.
As such, remote wokers in New Jersey can suffer from a wide range of injuries, from the more traditional workplace injuries like repetitive stress injuries to unique injuries caused by the unique circumstances of working remotely. Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs) are common in remote workers, as most remote work involves long hours of typing, sitting at a desk, and using a mouse – all of which put strain on your body, leading to RSIs such as carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, back pain, and neck pain.
Contact the Eder Law Firm (732) 937-9100 and speak to one of our experienced attorneys who can help you file a Workers’ Compensation claim.