Navigating Workers’ Compensation as a Seasonal or Temporary Worker
Seasonal and temporary jobs play a vital role in Indiana’s economy, from warehouse and manufacturing work to construction, agriculture, hospitality, and retail. While these positions offer flexibility and short-term income, they often come with higher injury risks and greater uncertainty when something goes wrong. Many non-permanent workers are unsure whether they even qualify for workers’ compensation benefits after a workplace injury. The truth is that seasonal and temporary employees often have the same rights as full-time workers, but securing those benefits can involve unique challenges.
If you are injured while working a short-term or seasonal job, speaking with an experienced Indianapolis workers’ compensation lawyer early on can help ensure your claim is taken seriously and your rights are fully protected from the start.
Are Seasonal and Temporary Workers Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
One of the most common misconceptions is that workers’ compensation only applies to full-time, permanent employees. In Indiana, that is not the case. Workers’ compensation coverage generally applies to most employees, regardless of whether they are full-time, part-time, seasonal, or temporary. What matters is whether you are legally classified as an employee rather than an independent contractor.
Temporary staffing agencies, labor contractors, and employers who hire seasonal help are typically required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This means that if you are injured while performing job duties, you may be entitled to medical benefits and wage replacement, even if your employment was intended to last only a few weeks or months.
Who Is Responsible for Your Claim?
One of the most confusing aspects for temporary and seasonal workers is determining who is responsible for the workers’ compensation claim. In many cases, temporary workers are employed by a staffing agency but perform work at another company’s job site. When an injury occurs, disputes may arise over which entity is responsible for providing benefits.
These disputes can delay medical treatment and income replacement if not addressed promptly. Determining liability often requires reviewing employment contracts, payroll records, and insurance coverage. Without legal guidance, injured workers may find themselves caught between two companies, each attempting to shift responsibility.
Challenges Unique to Non-Permanent Workers
Seasonal and temporary employees often face additional obstacles when filing a workers’ compensation claim. Short employment duration is one of the biggest challenges. Employers or insurers may question whether the injury truly occurred on the job, especially if the worker had been employed for only a brief period.
Another challenge involves wage calculation. Workers’ compensation benefits are based on average weekly wages, but calculating that amount can be more complicated for workers with irregular schedules, fluctuating hours, or limited work history. Errors in wage calculations can result in significantly reduced benefits.
Job insecurity also plays a role. Many non-permanent workers fear retaliation or termination if they report an injury. While Indiana law prohibits retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim, seasonal workers may still feel pressured to remain silent, which can ultimately jeopardize their health and legal rights.
Reporting Injuries as a Seasonal or Temporary Worker
Prompt injury reporting is especially critical for temporary and seasonal workers. Delays in reporting can raise doubts about whether the injury is work-related, particularly when employment is short-term. Injuries should be reported to a supervisor or staffing agency immediately and documented in writing whenever possible.
Seeking medical attention right away is equally important. Medical records serve as the foundation of a workers’ compensation claim, and early treatment helps establish a clear link between the injury and your job duties.
What Benefits Are Available?
Seasonal and temporary workers may be eligible for the same benefits as permanent employees. These benefits can include coverage for medical treatment, temporary total disability benefits if you are unable to work, and compensation for permanent impairments if the injury results in lasting limitations.
Even if your seasonal job ends while you are recovering, you may still be entitled to ongoing workers’ compensation benefits. Employers and insurers cannot simply stop benefits because a job assignment has concluded.
When a Claim Is Denied
Unfortunately, workers’ compensation claims filed by seasonal or temporary workers are more likely to be challenged or denied. Insurers may argue that the worker was not an employee, that the injury occurred outside the scope of employment, or that the wage loss is minimal due to short employment duration.
A denial does not mean the end of your case. Indiana law allows injured workers to challenge denied claims through the Workers’ Compensation Board. With proper documentation and legal advocacy, many denied claims are successfully appealed.
Why Legal Guidance Makes a Difference
Navigating workers’ compensation as a seasonal or temporary worker requires careful attention to employment classification, wage calculations, and medical evidence. An attorney experienced in Indiana workers’ compensation law understands how insurers evaluate these claims and how to counter common arguments used to deny benefits.
Legal representation can also help protect you from retaliation, ensure proper benefit calculations, and hold the appropriate employer or insurer accountable for your injury.
Contact Lee Cossell & Feagley
If you were injured while working a seasonal or temporary job, you should not assume that workers’ compensation benefits are out of reach. At Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, we have extensive experience helping injured workers throughout Indianapolis and Indiana pursue the benefits they are entitled to, regardless of employment status.
Our attorneys understand the unique challenges faced by non-permanent workers and are committed to providing clear guidance and strong advocacy every step of the way. Contact Lee Cossell & Feagley today to discuss your workers’ compensation options and protect your rights.