Legal Question in Workers Comp in Virginia
Death of Govt Employee on the Job and Workers Comp
My friend died at work of a heart attack. The office says he does not qualify for WC. However, (1) he had a obvious stressful job, (2) he had a known heart condition and (3) was allowed to work long hours and (4) it was known he was carrying boxes even though he was an office worker, but no one told him not to. Do you think he qualifies for Workers Compensation. THanks. !!
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Death of Govt Employee on the Job and Workers Comp
Based upon the factual scenario which you
have offered, the answer is, probably not, as many folks, unfortunately, die under similar circumstances, but, do not meet the necessary requirements for a death compensable under Workmans'Compensation.
However, to make a definitive determination, more factual background would be necessary.
Re: Death of Govt Employee on the Job and Workers Comp
In order to recover workers compensation for a heart attack, a specific work endeavor must trigger the heart attack. For example, if your friend was lifting a heavy box and that triggered his heart attack, then his case may be compensable. Of course, the cardiologist would have to agree the "lifting of the box" triggered the heart attack. Without some specific incident like this, I am afraid there is no chance.