Workers Compensation

Each state has its own workers' compensation laws to handle claims from employees who are injured on the job. In Kentucky , state law imposes strict liability on the employer of an injured worker. An injured worker does not need to establish fault or negligence by the employer in order to collect benefits. However, the injury or illness must be incurred in the course of employment in order for the workers' compensation system to provide benefits to the injured worker. Since workers' compensation law imposes strict liability on employers, it is the exclusive remedy for an employees injuries or illnesses arising out of the course of employment. There are a few limited exceptions that are addressed in the section "Can I Sue", please review that section or call one of our attorneys if you have a specific question .

The State of Kentucky requires each covered employer to carry workers' compensation insurance. Kentucky law may provide for specific limited exemptions for certain classes of employers such as domestic workers, farm hands, or independent contractors. In Kentucky , a waiver of coverage by an otherwise covered employee must be made on a specific form provided by the Board of Workers Compensation. The employee must sign the form in the presence of a notary public and then send the waiver to the Board of Workers Compensation. No other waiver is permitted.

If outside of Kentucky, please consult an attorney who is familiar with the law of workers compensation in your state.

Please consult one of our attorneys if you have been injured on the job. The initial consultation and evaluation is free. If we decide to take your case, there is no attorney fee unless we recover an award of money damages. There are a few exceptions to this policy. At Wilkey Law Office, we put our fee agreement in writing and thoroughly explain the fee arrangement prior to taking your case.