Workers’ compensation in the case of athletes may be a bit complex since one has to navigate through legal frameworks that are quite different from those of the common employee. While most workers do not go through such peculiar challenges as those that surround the nature of their jobs, athletes do.
Whether a professional athlete, member of a minor league team, or amateur competing in a high-risk sport, workers’ compensation may be very vital in ensuring protection and awarding damages from injuries that may occur on the job. A lot more is at stake regarding athletes than regular employees because of the high-risk nature of their careers and the type of specialized coverage that is required to protect their health and career.
Let’s break down some of the big questions on pro-athlete workers’ compensation claims.
1. Are Professional Athletes Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
In general, the eligibility of professional athletes for workers’ compensation benefits depends on the specific state statute, employment status, and injury details.
Typically, this class of workers would be covered if the athlete was considered an employee and not an independent contractor.
However, many states have additional restrictions in place.
Examples of limitations include: An athlete recovering from injuries who is not playing or earning wages may not be viewed as covered under benefits in some circumstances. The eligibility could be very different, and it would depend upon various state statutes and employment agreements.
2. What Types of Injuries Are Covered Under Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation can cover a wide range of injuries that occur during the course of an athlete’s career. These include acute injuries such as fractures, concussions, and sprains, as well as long-term, cumulative injuries, like joint degeneration or chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
The system is designed to address both immediate injuries and conditions that develop over time due to the physical demands of the sport.
3. What Benefits Can Athletes Receive from Workers’ Compensation?
Injured athletes may be eligible for several types of benefits, including:
- Medical Costs: Coverage for surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any necessary medical treatments.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to time off, generally two-thirds of an athlete’s average weekly wage.
- Permanent Disability: If the injury results in long-term or permanent disability, athletes may be entitled to ongoing benefits.
- Death Benefits: In the unfortunate case of a fatal injury, dependents may be entitled to compensation.
4. How Do States Differ in Their Approach to Workers’ Compensation for Athletes?
The rules governing workers’ compensation for athletes differ significantly from state to state.
For example, California has special provisions for professional athletes, where they can file for workers’ compensation even if they played for out-of-state teams, provided they meet certain criteria, like playing a minimum number of seasons.
On the other hand, states like Florida may exclude athletes from workers’ compensation entirely if they are not playing at the time of their injury.
5. How Can Athletes Maximize Their Chances of Receiving Workers’ Compensation?
To increase the chances of successfully claiming workers’ compensation, athletes should keep detailed records of injuries and medical treatments throughout their careers.
It’s also crucial to consult a workers’ compensation attorney who can help navigate the complex legal landscape, particularly if an injury develops over time or if the athlete faces challenges regarding their classification as an employee.