Everything you need to know about workers' compensation

An occupational injury can have significant consequences for both health and finances. It is therefore important to understand what rights and possibilities you have for compensation if you are exposed to such damage.

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What is an occupational injury?

An occupational injury is a personal injury, illness or death that occurs as a result of an accident at work or harmful effects as a result of the working environment. For an injury to be classified as an occupational injury, it must have occurred during work at the workplace during working hours. Typical examples include falls, crushing injuries, and exposure to harmful substances that lead to illness.

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What is occupational injury compensation?

Occupational injury compensation is compensation you may be entitled to if you have suffered an occupational injury. The purpose of the compensation is to cover financial losses and any non-financial consequences as a result of the damage. This may include coverage of treatment expenses, lost income, and compensation for permanent medical disability.

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Employer's duties

In Norway, all employers are required by law to take out occupational injury insurance for their employees. This insurance should ensure that employees receive the compensation they are entitled to if they are exposed to an occupational injury. It is important to note that the self-employed and freelancers are not automatically covered by this scheme, but they have the option of taking out voluntary occupational injury insurance, which is recommended.

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What should you do in the event of an occupational injury?

1. Report the injury: Inform your employer immediately about the injury. The employer is responsible for reporting the damage to NAV and the insurance company.
2. See a doctor: Seek medical help and ensure that all injuries and symptoms are documented. This is important to establish a connection between the accident and the damage.
3. Documentation: Collect all relevant documentation, including medical records, injury reports and any witness statements.
4. Seek advice: You may want to contact a solicitor with experience in professional injury compensation for guidance through the process.

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Compensation items in case of occupational injury

In the event of an approved occupational injury, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:

• Incurred and future expenses: Coverage of necessary expenses for treatment, medication and any aids.
• Lost income: Compensation for loss of income as a result of the injury, both during the period you are on sick leave and for future loss if the injury results in reduced ability to work.
• Compensation: Compensation for permanent medical disability as a result of the injury.
• Compensation: In cases where the employer has shown gross negligence, compensation may be applicable.

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Limitation periods

It is important to be aware that there are deadlines for reporting claims for occupational injury compensation. In general, the damage must be reported to NAV within one year after the damage occurred. For claims against the insurance company, a limitation period of three years applies from the time you became aware of, or should have become aware of, the circumstances that justify the claim.

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Coverage of legal expenses

In many cases, reasonable and necessary legal expenses will be covered by the insurance company as part of the compensation settlement. It may therefore be a good idea to seek legal assistance to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

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Being exposed to an occupational injury can be a stressful experience. It is therefore important to know your rights and what steps you should take to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. By following the advice above and seeking the necessary help, you are better equipped to handle the situation and look after your interests.

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Insa lawyers help clients all over the country. We can assist with complaints about refusals from NAV or insurance companies, provide advice on compensation claims and proceedings, as well as represent you in court.