Injured workers have rights, and state workers’ compensation laws are in place to ensure that folks who are injured on the job have financial resources available for their own protection. If you were injured while performing a job-related activity, workers’ compensation insurance can help you fill in the large financial gaps created by your medical bills and lost income.
Qualifying for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Most types of workplaces (typically with 5 or more employees) are covered under workers’ compensation insurance. Federal employees, railroad workers, seafarers, volunteers, independent contractors, and harbor workers are typically not eligible.
A wide range of injuries that lead to bodily harm are typically covered, including burns, crushing injuries, occupational illnesses like mesothelioma and carpal tunnel syndrome, amputation, and paralysis. In some cases, workers who sustained psychological illnesses may be eligible for benefits as well.
Workers’ compensation payouts are intended to help you pay the bills while you are recovering. While most payouts are temporary, workers’ compensation checks may continue until age 75, when Social Security Disability benefits begin. Only workers who qualify with “permanent total disability” can receive long-term benefits. Check with your workers’ compensation attorney for state-specific information on benefit guidelines and restrictions.
Dealing With Workers’ Compensation Denial
Employers pay into their workers’ compensation fund by making payments to an insurance carrier. This pool of funds should be readily available for injured workers when and where they need it. Unfortunately, a large number of workers’ compensation claims get denied annually, usually because the insurance provider or the employer contests a filed claim. In some cases, the employer may refuse to file a claim altogether. Whatever the reason for your denial, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can evaluate your claim, explain your rights clearly, and help you pursue the benefits you so greatly need.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Whether you recently sustained an injury and are about to file your initial claim, or you’ve already been denied workers’ compensation benefits and want to appeal, an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can greatly improve your chances of achieving full benefits. Your workers’ compensation lawyers can also work to get your checks started right away and make sure all of your medical expenses are covered.
Ask your attorney to look into additional benefit programs you may qualify for, such as the Families and Medical Leave Act, The Americans with Disabilities Act, the Railroad Workers/Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), Social Security Disability Insurance, state unemployment insurance, and others.