If you’ve ever been injured while at work, or just want to learn about your rights as an employee, you’ll want to read this article. It’s critical to know what steps you can take when you suffer an injury on the job. Let’s take a look at what you can do.
Worker’s Compensation
When an employee has medical expenses as the result of a work injury, worker’s compensation insurance is what covers the cost. Most states mandate some form of worker’s compensation insurance with every business, some exceptions included.
An injured employee is guaranteed a percentage of financial coverage, barring any legal actions they take against their employer. Workers are required to report any injuries suffered within a certain time period, after which their rights to compensation expire.
Areas Of Coverage
-Instant Medical Treatment
-Doctor visits, surgeries, and medication are all covered within the plan. Equipment like wheelchairs, catheters, and others could be covered as well.
-Disability / Lost Wages
-An employee’s lost wages due to the injury are covered under this section of worker’s compensation. The wages can be paid out partially or in full for temporary and permanent disability.
Rehabilitation
For more severe injuries that require rehab both physically and mentally, worker’s compensation has these covered. If the employee cannot return to work any more, it’s even possible to receive compensation for training for a new career path.
Survivor’s Compensation
In a worst case scenario, if an employee dies as the result of a work-related injury, worker’s compensation gives support to their family or significant other. Funeral expenses can also be covered as well.
Denied Coverage
There are a few instances where worker’s compensation will not be used for a work-related injury. Let’s go over them:
- If the employee is under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the injury
- Eating food they prepared for their personal meal
- Traveling to or from the work site to their residence or any place else for personal reasons
Do You Need It?
Worker’s compensation requirements vary by state, but it usually depends on three factors — the business industry, number of employees, and business structure. Some companies with no employees outside of the owner could get an exemption.
If you’re in a profession where work injuries are common, you should think about purchasing worker’s compensation. Should something bad happen to you while working, medical costs can skyrocket. That’s why you want to be protected for every situation. Forbes has a new list of the worker’s compensation insurance plans for 2022.
