Workplace Injury — Virginia

Workplace Injury in Virginia — Your Rights Under Virginia Law

Virginia 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

Virginia workers compensation: report injury immediately. Personal injury claims against third parties: 2 years from the date of injury.

Virginia Workers' Compensation Act

Virginia requires employers with 3 or more employees to carry workers compensation insurance (Va. Code § 65.2-101 et seq.). Virginia workers comp provides medical treatment, temporary total disability at 2/3 of wages, and permanent partial disability benefits. Virginia disputes are heard by the Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission.

Virginia-Specific Tip

Virginia's contributory negligence rule does NOT apply to workers compensation claims — workers comp is a no-fault system. However it does apply to any third-party personal injury claims arising from workplace injuries. Virginia workers comp also has specific rules about treating physician selection — your employer has the right to select your treating physician.

📊 Virginia'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 Virginia

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 Virginia 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 Virginia workplace injury attorney to evaluate all available claims

Frequently Asked Questions — Workplace Injury in Virginia

What workers compensation benefits does Virginia provide?

Virginia requires employers with 3 or more employees to carry workers compensation insurance (Va. Code § 65.2-101 et seq.). Virginia workers comp provides medical treatment, temporary total disability at 2/3 of wages, and permanent partial disability benefits. Virginia disputes are heard by the Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission.

Can I sue my Virginia 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 Virginia 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.