The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) in Ontario provides financial support to workers who are injured while on the job. Both sudden accidents and long-term ailments caused by workplace conditions may qualify for WSIB benefits, depending on the situation. Through the WSIB, you may qualify for benefits like income replacement, medical coverage, and more.
Knowing what injuries may be covered and what issues may negatively affect your case is crucial to filing a successful claim. If you are unsure about your eligibility or the claims process, you should seek guidance from an experienced WSIB lawyer.
At Goodman Elbassiouni, our legal team can help injured workers. Contact our Toronto office at 905-265-1005 or fill out our online contact form to discuss your situation today.
What Workplace Injuries May Be Eligible for Benefits?
There are a variety of injuries and illnesses that may qualify for WSIB benefits in Ontario. For example:
Accidents
- Slips, trips, and falls that lead to sprains, fractures, or head injuries
- Falls from heights
- Being struck by objects or machinery
- Overexertion injuries
- And more
Disablements & Gradual Injuries
- Repetitive strain injuries, like carpal tunnel or tendonitis
- Back and neck injuries from long-term bending or awkward postures
- Joint or wrist injuries from repetitive tasks
- And more
Occupational Diseases
- Respiratory illnesses, like asthma or asbestosis
- Skin conditions, like dermatitis or chemical burns
- Occupational cancers due to carcinogen exposure
- Noise-induced hearing loss
- And more
Other Eligible Conditions
- Mental stress injuries, like anxiety, PTSD, or depression
- Injuries from workplace violence
- Aggravation of pre-existing conditions due to job duties (in some cases)
- And more
The list above does not reflect all injuries or illnesses that may be covered by the WSIB. To qualify for a claim, you must be able to demonstrate that your injury occurred at work and that it has significantly impacted your ability to perform your job duties and your overall well-being. If you have questions about your eligibility, it is recommended that you contact a WSIB lawyer as soon as possible.
When Might You NOT Qualify for WSIB Benefits?
While many different kinds of workplace injuries and illnesses are covered by the WSIB, there are some situations where a claimant may not be eligible for benefits. When this happens, your claim may be denied.
This can happen due to:
- Non-Work Related Injuries or Illnesses: If the injury or illness that is preventing you from working occurred outside of work, or is unrelated to your job duties, it may not be covered by the WSIB. Instead, you may need to seek coverage through short-term disability benefits, long-term disability benefits, the ODSP, or CPP Disability Benefits.
- Failure to Report on Time: The WSIB requires that you report all injuries and illnesses to both your employer and the WSIB within specific deadlines. If you report your ailment late, your claim might be denied (even if the injury itself is eligible).
- Lack of Medical Evidence: WSIB claims usually require detailed medical documentation that connects your injury or illness to your job. If you have not gathered sufficient evidence, your claim may be denied.
- Non-Covered Employers or Industries: Certain types of employers, or self-employed individuals (like independent contractors), may not automatically be covered through the WSIB. It is best to speak to a lawyer if you are unsure about your coverage.
- And More
Curious About Your WSIB Eligibility? Contact Goodman Elbassiouni LLP Today
WSIB benefits provide essential financial support and rehabilitation resources for Ontario workers disabled by injuries or occupational diseases. It’s crucial that you report your injuries right away, fully understand your eligibility, and gather the proper documentation in order to submit a successful claim. While many injuries qualify for WSIB coverage, other issues may arise that affect your case.
If you’ve been injured at work or have developed a condition that’s related to your job, our experienced WSIB lawyers in Toronto can guide you through the claims process. Contact Goodman Elbassiouni LLP today to pursue the benefits and compensation you deserve.