What Types of Injuries Are Covered Under Workers' Compensation in Arizona?

Arizona's workers' compensation system provides benefits to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses that arise out of and in the course of their employment.

To be covered, an injury must meet both of these requirements:

• Arising out of Employment: This means the injury must be caused by a risk related to the job or the work environment.

• In the Course of Employment: This means the injury must occur while the employee is performing work duties, at the worksite, or during work hours.

Here are some examples of injuries typically covered by workers' compensation in Arizona:

• Traumatic Injuries: These include sudden and unexpected events that cause immediate harm, such as:

  • Falls

  • Slips and trips

  • Cuts and lacerations

  • Burns

  • Fractures

  • Back injuries

• Repetitive Motion Injuries: These injuries develop gradually over time due to repeated movements or overuse. Common examples include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Tendinitis

  • Epicondylitis ("tennis elbow")

• Occupational Diseases: These are illnesses caused by exposure to hazardous substances or conditions in the workplace. Examples include:

  • Respiratory illnesses from exposure to dust or chemicals

  • Skin conditions from contact with irritants

  • Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud noise

• Mental Injuries: Psychological conditions can be covered if they are caused by an unexpected, unusual, or extraordinary stress related to the employment. This might include:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after witnessing a traumatic event at work

  • Anxiety or depression caused by physical injuries

Injuries Not Typically Covered:

• Injuries occurring during the commute to or from work are generally not covered unless the employee was performing work-related tasks during the commute.

• Self-inflicted injuries or injuries caused by the employee's intoxication or illegal drug use are not compensable.

Key Points to Remember:

• Prompt Reporting is Essential:  Employees must report work injuries to their employer as soon as possible. This ensures timely medical treatment and preserves the employee's rights to benefits.

• Medical Evidence is Crucial: To prove a compensable claim, injured workers need to provide medical documentation that links their injury or illness to their employment.

• Consult with an Attorney: Workers' compensation law is complex, and the process can be challenging. It is advisable to seek legal counsel from an attorney specializing in workers' compensation to understand your rights and navigate the system effectively.

Understanding what types of injuries are covered under workers' compensation is essential for employees in Arizona. By knowing their rights and responsibilities, injured workers can access the benefits they deserve and focus on their recovery.