If you have contracted an illness or suffered an injury at work, you likely have questions about how you can cover the cost of medical treatment and replace the wages you will lose by taking time off work for recovery. Workers’ compensation is an insurance program mandated by the state to provide financial benefits to employees in this situation based on a number of eligibility requirements.
Is every employee covered by workers’ compensation?
State requirements vary concerning an employer’s responsibility to provide workers compensation coverage. This depends on the type of business, the number of employees it includes, and the type of work conducted by employees. Domestic workers, farmworkers, and seasonal or casual workers are usually excluded from workers’ compensation coverage.
Does my injury have to occur at the workplace to be covered?
No, the injury does not have to occur at the workplace to be covered, but the injury itself must be considered work-related. Work-related refers to any work performed for the benefit of an employer or during the course of employment. This includes illness or injury resulting from business travel, driving a company car, running work errands, or even participating in required company events.
What expenses does workers compensation cover?
Workers’ compensation covers any medical or hospital expenses necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of your illness or injury, as well as providing disability payments during the period you are unable to work. It may also cover rehabilitation, retraining, or other benefits.
May I receive treatment from my own doctor?
This varies by state. Some states allow you to see your primary care physician, while others require you to submit a request in writing before the illness or injury. Generally, a worker must see a medical provider chosen by the employer, at least initially.
If you have any questions about workers’ compensation benefits or would like to learn more, contact our attorneys today for a consultation. We handle thousands of these cases every year, and our team is passionate about making sure you get what you deserve.
