The purpose of workers' compensation is to safeguard employees who suffer injuries or illnesses while on the job. This encompasses a wide range of incidents, including slip-and-fall mishaps and injuries caused by repetitive motions. According to the National Safety Council, an American worker sustains on-the-job injuries every seven seconds.
While the specifics of workers' compensation laws vary by state, they typically mandate that employers offer their employees a certain level of benefits in the event of a work-related injury or illness. These benefits can include medical care, wage replacement, and disability pay.
It is important to bear in mind that workers' compensation is a no-fault system. This means that fault does not factor into the equation when it comes to determining eligibility for benefits. As long as the injury or illness was caused by work-related factors, the employee is typically entitled to compensation. This is why it is crucial for employers to have workers' compensation insurance coverage. Without it, they risk being held responsible for the cost of medical treatment and other benefits out of their own pockets.
What Is Covered Under Workers Compensation?
It is important for employees to have knowledge of what is included in their workers' compensation coverage. This policy aims to provide benefits to workers who have been injured or disabled while on the job. Typically, workers' compensation encompasses medical expenses, lost income, and rehabilitation expenses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, private industry employers reported almost 2.8 million non-fatal illnesses and injuries in 2019.
It is crucial to note that workers' compensation covers injuries and illnesses that occur while performing job-related duties, regardless of fault. For instance, if you slip and fall while carrying work equipment, you are qualified for workers' compensation benefits. However, if you sustain injuries while engaging in horseplay or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you might not be eligible for benefits.
Our team of professionals comprehends the intricacies of workers' compensation laws and strives to help you navigate the process. We believe that injured workers are entitled to fair compensation for their injuries, and we work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the benefits they deserve. Get in touch with us today for a complimentary consultation.
What Benefits Are Available Under Workers Compensation?
As someone who has been hurt while working, you may qualify for various advantages under the workers' compensation insurance. These advantages consist of medical care, temporary disability, permanent disability, and job retraining coverage. Medical care encompasses the expenses of medical services, including doctor visits, medication, hospitalization, and other necessary treatments. Temporary disability provides wage replacement while you are unable to work due to your injury.
Permanent disability compensates for any long-term consequences of the injury, like loss of mobility or function. Job retraining coverage helps with the expenses of retraining if you cannot return to your previous job due to your injury. It's important to keep in mind that workers' compensation benefits differ depending on the state, and some states may provide additional benefits.
If you've been hurt while on the job, it's crucial to seek legal counsel from a workers' compensation attorney to guarantee that you receive the full advantages you are entitled to. Our team of experts can help lead you through the process and fight for your rights as an injured worker.