Workers’ compensation stands out as a very useful insurance program.
It is state-mandated and was built to offer benefits to those employers who end up ill or injured as they are on the job.
Every single state in the US has specific programs and laws for workers’ comp.
There is even a federal system designed for the federal employees.
Generally speaking, based on the experience of Scranton workers compensation attorneys, when the employee is injured at work, compensation benefits are available.
This is regardless of the party at fault, including the employee, a customer, a coworker, or the employee.
However, there are some exceptions that apply, so it is always important to talk to a workers’ compensation attorney whenever you might have to file for workers’ compensation.
Besides this, you should also know the following.
The Employees’ Rights When Injured
Several rights are available for the injured employees, like:
- Filing for workers’ comp without fearing retaliation from the employer.
- Appealing when claims are denied.
- Getting medical treatment.
- Being represented by an attorney to navigate the entire process.
There are extra rights that might be available based on where you work. For instance, in some US states, you are allowed to choose the doctor you go to for treatment.
Where Can The Injury Happen?
One of the common misconceptions about workers’ compensation is that you need to be at your workplace when you are injured or compensation is not available.
This is incorrect. The only real rule that has to be real is that you need to be injured while you do some work for your job.
Whenever you do anything work-related, you can receive compensation.
Is Everything Covered?
As expected, the law does not cover absolutely all the work-related injuries and illnesses.
Usually, the injuries that are happening because of the employee being under the influence or self-inflicted injuries (like when you are involved in a fight you started) are not covered.
Also, if you are committing some crimes or you violate the policies of the employer, your claim can end up being denied.
The Coverage Offered For Long-Term Illnesses And Problems
The injury that you suffered does not have to be necessarily caused by some sort of an accident, like when you fall from the ladder you do work on.
Employees can also receive compensation for the injuries coming from the work activities as the job is done for a long period of time.
The two best examples of that are chronic back problems and repetitive stress injuries.
Based on state laws and circumstances, it is also possible to be given financial benefits when you end up with an illness developed due to the work you do.
However, when looking at occupational diseases, there are specific rules that dictate eligibility.
More Coverage Than Just Medical Bills
Through workers’ compensation, you receive money to cover medical expenses.
At the same time though, you can receive payments when you are faced with temporary disability.
Even money to cover your expenses as you cannot back to work because of recovering from the injury is available.
In several states, you receive payments to cover retraining, rehabilitation, and so much more.