Massachusetts Injury Lawyer Blog

Worker’s Compensation- Private Right of Action in Massachusetts

Published on: October 22, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

By KJC Law Firm

Workers’ compensation benefits are exclusively for employees who are either injured or killed during work hours. Employees may not sue employers for damages other than work related injuries or illnesses. The employee is required to show a written notice to the employer and show him or her the claims of right of action.

The rights of action are under the common law either at hire or within 30 days of the time that the employer obtains insurance or becomes a self-insurer. The employee may sue in court if the employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance.

Ten Steps Gyms are Taking During the Pandemic

Published on: October 16, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

Enter for a free 3-month gym membership to Anytime Fitness in Auburn! Like, share, and follow to be entered into the drawing.

During these unprecedented times, exercise is one of the most important ways to relieve stress and build our immune system. Exercise is scientifically proven to help make our immune system stronger and fight viruses such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people are beginning to get tired of relying on virtual workout classes and YouTube videos to fill their gym void. If you are brave enough to enter back into the gym, you will enjoy some perks such as more space, clean equipment, and a peace of mind until everyone else becomes sick of their online cardio classes. There are many precautions and safety standards that you and gyms can take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Below are listed ten steps that gyms and gym members can take to fight the virus and still enjoy exercising at the gym.

Wear a Mask

The Importance of Sleep during COVID-19

Published on: October 15, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

By KJC Law Firm

It is completely normal to feel anxious during these unprecedented times where we feel as if we have a loss of control due to the aspects of the COVID-19, Instead of spending so much time excessively worrying, why not put that energy into what you can control which is self-care. Sleep is a natural aspect for focusing and working on self- care. Getting enough sleep not only makes you feel good and ready for the day but also benefits your immune system.

Can sleep help my immune system fight the coronavirus?

Obtaining Workers’ Compensation Coverage

Published on: October 14, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

By KJC Law Firm

All employees in Massachusetts must carry workers’ compensation insurance for all employees and themselves if they are a member of the company. The requirement applies to everyone no matter how many hours worked or the number of employees. The only exception is for domestic employees who must work at least 16 hours a week to be eligible for workers’ comp insurance.

Members of limited liability companies (LLC), partners of a limited liability partnership (LLP), or sole proprietors of an unincorporated business do not have to carry workers’ comp insurance for themselves. This exemption does not include employees who are not members of the LLC or LLP. They must be covered. If these exception cases want coverage, they should contact an insurance broker.

How to Keep a Routine During COVID-19

Published on: October 9, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

COVID-19 is a difficult time for everyone. One way to establish a sense of normalcy and certainty is to establish consistent weekly and daily routines. With school and work being online, the gym closed, and other everyday activities being altered, having a routine will make us feel a little more sane during these crazy times.

Experts day that keeping a routine- either your old one before COVID-19 or a new one- is an important part in maintaining mental and physical health. Some people may view quarantine as a vacation or a retreat. Others may see the stay at home orders as a way to get organized, get ahead, or acquire a new skill. It’s important to note how we want to spend our time during this unique situation. Ask yourself: “After this is over, what do I want accomplished or have experienced?” Build your routine around these goals in mind.

A routine does not mean you have to do everything at the same time according to a strict schedule. While that may help some people, it is also a good idea for others to have a check list or to-do list with tasks they would like to accomplish in the day. This includes downtime, exercise, work, and self care!

Restrictions for Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Published on: October 7, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

By KJC Law Firm

Workers’ Compensation Law

In Massachusetts, all businesses must carry workers’ comp insurance for all employees. This includes owners who are considered employees, no matter how many hours are worked per week. Also the Massachusetts workers’ compensation system insists that employees who are in domestic service must be covered if they work more than 16 hours per week.

How to Stay Fit At Home During COVID-19

Published on: October 2, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

Many people’s routines are being disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Gyms are still closed, work is being done from home, and the weather keeps getting colder. When it comes to physical and mental health, nutrition and physical activity are key players. Not only does a good diet and being active promote a healthy lifestyle, but also prevents disease.

Physical activity, movement, and exercise are extremely important to maintain during the coronavirus pandemic. An inactive lifestyle is associated with higher risks for chronic disease and decreased immune health. With that in mind, below are benefits of exercise, how to think about exercising, how much you should be doing, equipment, and more.

Benefits

Who is covered by Workers’ Compensation?

Published on: September 30, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

Workers’ Compensation or workers’ comp is available to all employees who either become injured or ill at work. However, depending on your state or occupation; you may not be. A common myth is that all employees across the United States are covered. This applies to many but not everyone.

Are all employees covered?

The Federal Employment Compensation Act (FECA) provides all non-military and federal employees with workers’ compensation. Workers who are employed by either private companies, states, or local governments should contact their state’s workers’ compensation board for details on who is covered in their business. Some states do not cover occupations such as independent contractors, domestic employees, agricultural employees, or seasonal employees in the workers’ compensation system. Additionally, some states require coverage only if there are a certain amount of employees hired. To avoid dealing with claims against your company, contact a serious workers’ compensation attorney in your regional area.

KJC Welcomes Jamie Goodwin to the Firm

Published on: September 30, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

We are thrilled to welcome Attorney Jamie Goodwin to the KJC Team.

Attorney Jamie Goodwin concentrates on legal matters arising out of his client’s ability or inability to work. He has represented employees and labor organizations up and down the I-95 corridor. Although he has represented Employers, his passion is representing individuals and the entities that represent them. His practice primarily focuses on workers’ compensation, labor & employment, social security disability, and public sector disability retirements. Jamie diligently represents his clients from the first consultation to the Courthouse and will continue to do so as a member of the KJC team.

Attorney Goodwin is admitted to practice in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the State of Florida. Jamie received his undergraduate degree at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (2005) and sought his Juris Doctor degree at Northeastern University’s School of Law (2008). He is admitted to practice in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (2008), the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts (2011), and the State of Florida (2015).

What is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Published on: September 28, 2020 | by KJC Law Firm, LLC

What is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

In any business, employees can get hurt. Thankfully, workers compensation insurance, also known as workers comp can give benefits to employees who suffer from a worker-related injury or illness. There are many beneficial ways in which workers comp can protect your business and employees. Worker’s comp will help cover missed wages, medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation, or in extreme cases death benefits.

Each state has its own workers’ compensation program. This means that laws for workers comp can be different depending on the location of your business. Under the Massachusetts workers’ compensation system, the Massachusetts General Laws require employers to provide workers’ compensation (WC) insurance coverage for all of their employees. This insurance pays for necessary and reasonable medical treatment related to illness or injury while also covering partial compensation for lost wages after the first 5 calendar days of total or partial disability.