Attorneys
Last Updated: 4/27/2023
Iowa law generally requires a person to be considered an employee to be covered under workers' compensation, however, there are some exceptions. For example, Iowa Code §85.36(9)(a) provides compensation to volunteer fire fighters, emergency personnel, reserve police officers, ambulance drivers and other volunteer medical personnel. The compensation includes medical care, medical mileage, money while they are off work healing from their injuries, and compensation for permanent injuries. The amount of wages that are used to determine compensation as one of these types of volunteers is set at either the pay they receive at their regular job or 140% of the statewide average weekly wage (usually around $1,100 gross), whichever is more.
Are There Other Volunteer Jobs that are Covered?
There can be other situations where a volunteer should receive Iowa workers' compensation benefits, but much of it depends upon the facts. For example, students participating in a work study type program are usually considered employees. Elected and appointed officials like a mayor or city council persons are employees. Inmates who are working at a prison or outside of a prison at a public or charitable facility are usually considered employees of the state. However, keep in mind that there are different wage laws for these types of volunteers compared to medical personnel described above.
What Should I Do if I Am Injured While in a Volunteer Position?
If you or a loved one were working as a volunteer and believe that you should receive workers' compensation benefits then you should call a qualified work injury attorney right away. We offer a review of Iowa work injuries at no cost or risk to you, so call now to see if we can help.
To receive a Free book entitled "Iowa Workers' Compensation- An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries" which describes Iowa work injuries including the "7 Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work" Call Now 641-792-3595 or click on the link above. Why offer a Book at No Cost? Iowa Workers' Compensation Attorney Corey J. L. Walker practices primarily in workers' compensation law and has represented hundreds of Iowans hurt at work and has seen too many clients from Des Moines, Newton, Cedar Rapids and throughout the state of Iowa make mistakes before they had the “right” information about work injuries resulting in them losing thousands of dollars. Iowans hurt at work are beginning to realize that the insurance company is not there to help them and that they should have someone on their side. Finally, you can learn about work injuries in the comfort of your own home with no cost, risk or obligation. For immediate assistance call (641) 792-3595 and ask for Corey or Erik.
