What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

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Workers’ compensation is a form of liability insurance that is required by law of almost every type of business. With a few exceptions, an employer must have this insurance in place in case an employee becomes sick or injured due to negligent conditions at the workplace.

There are many stipulations that must be met in order for an employee to be able to put in a workers’ compensation claim. Many employees don’t want to put in a claim because they are afraid that when they return to work their employer will find a reason to terminate them. They are also afraid that when applying for a new job the new employer may be afraid to hire them because of the worker’s compensation claim. If you feel like you are a victim of harassment due to workers’ compensation you should seek legal advice immediately.

Workers’ compensation coverage will pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation services for employees who have legitimately been injured while at work through no fault of their own. Here is a breakdown as to exactly what workers’ compensation covers.

Medical expenses

The main criteria for coverage of medical expenses by an employer are that the treatment has to be ordered to relieve pain and improve the health of the employee. In most cases the compensation insurance will cover the cost of diagnosing the illness or injuries (X-ray, MRI, etc.) as well as medications prescribe by a physician. Each state has its own stipulations so make sure to check exactly what is covered where you live.

Lost Wages

You can expect to receive about two-thirds of your regular paycheck while out on workers’ compensation leave. This may still affect the way you pay your bills as long as you are not receiving your entire paycheck. It will generally take about 14 days before you will start seeing any pay checks to replace your lost wages.

Rehabilitation services

Rehabilitation services as regards to workers’ compensation are described as any service that is used to treat the employee so that he or she can return to their previous duties as an employee of the company. Rehabilitation could take months or even a few years depending on the level of injury to the employee.

Other expenses

If your condition has left you with a permanent disability, you may be entitled to benefits to cover you if you are unable to ever return to your previous position with the company. Workers’ compensation also covers death benefits to the family of the person who died as a result of the injuries.

Keep in mind that just because you may fall at work it does not mean you are eligible for workers ‘compensation benefits. You must prove that there was negligence involved and your case must be approved.

If you are unsure about what coverage you are entitled to you may want to consult an attorney. Most work on a contingency basis meaning you don’t have to pay them if they do not win your case.