Workplace Injury — Massachusetts

Workplace Injury in Massachusetts — Your Rights Under Massachusetts Law

Massachusetts workers compensation covers most workplace injuries — but it may not be your only option. Third-party claims can provide significantly more compensation.

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Legal notice: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state — always consult a licensed attorney before making any legal decisions.

Statute of Limitations

Massachusetts workers compensation: report injury immediately. Personal injury claims against third parties: 3 years from the date of injury.

Massachusetts Workers' Compensation Act

Massachusetts requires employers with one or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance (M.G.L. c. 152). Massachusetts workers' comp provides medical treatment, temporary total incapacity benefits at 60% of average weekly wage (up to a maximum), permanent partial incapacity benefits and death benefits. Massachusetts has a Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) that adjudicates disputed claims.

Massachusetts-Specific Tip

Massachusetts workers' comp disputes are heard by Administrative Judges at the Department of Industrial Accidents. Massachusetts has specific rules about the selection of treating physicians and Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs). The construction and healthcare industries account for the highest rates of serious workplace injuries in Massachusetts.

📊 Massachusetts's workers compensation system processes tens of thousands of claims annually. Third-party claims are frequently overlooked but can dramatically increase total recovery.

What To Do After a Workplace Injury in Massachusetts

1

Report the injury to your supervisor in writing immediately

2

Seek medical attention immediately

3

File a workers compensation claim with your employer under Massachusetts law

4

Document all expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket costs

5

Evaluate whether any third party contributed to your injury

6

Contact a Massachusetts workplace injury attorney to evaluate all available claims

Frequently Asked Questions — Workplace Injury in Massachusetts

What workers compensation benefits does Massachusetts provide?

Massachusetts requires employers with one or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance (M.G.L. c. 152). Massachusetts workers' comp provides medical treatment, temporary total incapacity benefits at 60% of average weekly wage (up to a maximum), permanent partial incapacity benefits and death benefits. Massachusetts has a Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) that adjudicates disputed claims.

Can I sue my Massachusetts employer for a workplace injury?

Generally workers compensation is the exclusive remedy against your direct employer. However you can still pursue third-party claims against any other party whose negligence contributed to your injury — contractors, equipment manufacturers, and property owners.

What if a third party caused my Massachusetts workplace injury?

Even if your employer carries workers compensation, you can sue any third party whose negligence contributed to your injury. These third-party claims can include pain and suffering damages that workers comp does not cover, and can be pursued simultaneously with a workers comp claim.

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Legal Disclaimer

The information provided on InjuryCorner is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Nothing on this site should be construed as creating an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ — the content on this page may not apply to your specific situation. InjuryCorner makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of any information on this site. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. Always consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your jurisdiction before making any legal decisions. Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and InjuryCorner or any attorney listed on the platform.