A Look Into Workers Compensation
Getting injured on the job can result in severe consequences. Not only can you become unable to perform your duties, but also a serious injury could cost you financially and emotionally. In such a scenario, it is important to note that you have the right to pursue compensation. Your employer is required to pay for benefits you deserve according to workers compensation law.
What is Workers Compensation?
Workers compensation is a type of insurance coverage that provides lost wages and medical benefits to employees who are injured while performing their duty on the job. The system is based on a trade-off between employers and employees. Employees have the right to receive effective, prompt medical treatment for injuries that occurred on the job no matter who was at fault. In return, they cannot sue their employers over the said injuries.
What it Covers
On the job injuries and diseases suffered by employees include the following:
- Simple first-aid incidents
- Serious accidents
- Work related diseases
- Emotional and physical injuries
Not all injuries sustained are covered by workers compensation. For example, injuries resulting from off-duty, voluntary athletic, social, or recreational activities, and there are some exceptions to the statute of limitations. If you have any questions or doubts, you should seek legal advice.
Expected Compensation/Benefits
The workers compensation benefits you receive may vary depending on your state, severity of your injury, its consequences, and other factors. Generally, these include the following:
- A portion of lost wages
- Medical care, including medication, physical therapy, doctor’s visits, surgery, etc.
- Money to compensate for permanent injuries
- Vocational rehabilitation to help you train for or find another job if you cannot effectively fulfill your prior duties
- An accident or injury that causes employee’s death is also compensable
A great thing about workers compensation benefits is that they are provided in a no-fault system. This means it doesn’t matter whether the organization or employer was at fault for employee’s injury. If the employee is eligible for compensation, they will receive it.
What to Do After a Work Injury?
In case of job-related injury or accident, no matter how minor, make sure to inform your employer in a timely manner. Next, file your claim with the division of workers compensation of your state. Once you receive the claim form, read and follow its instructions to fill it out and return it.
The deadline to file a claim varies from state to state but generally, it is two years after the date of the accident. If you fail to file a claim within the statute of limitations, your rights to compensation will most likely be forfeited.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Workers Compensation Attorney
Workers compensation is designed to help employees recover both emotionally and financially. But filing its claim can be tedious. That’s why it is recommended that you work with a skilled attorney to make the process hassle-free and efficient. Workers compensation attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC have the experience and skills to help you protect your rights and get the deserved compensation. Dial (703) 560-0700 to learn how we can use our legal resources to your advantage.
References
https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/workcomp
https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/work/costs/workers-compensation-costs/
