September 06, 2018
The 4 Repayment Options Available for Workers' Compensation
Every workplace has a duty to its employees to provide a safe and healthy work environment. However, accidents do happen. An employee has the right to be compensated for their injuries if they have been hurt in the workplace. There are different types of workers’ compensation that employees can receive. Learn more about these four types of workers’ compensation so that you know what to expect if you ever find yourself hurt on the job.
Workers’ Compensation Options
Disability Support
Serious work injuries sometimes cause temporary or permanent disability. Disabilities can keep workers from being able to return to work. This can mean lost wages which makes it difficult to support a family. Many injured workers face a temporary disability, meaning that they will be able to return to work after they have healed. However, some workers face permanent disabilities that can affect them for the rest of their lives. You have the right to compensation for lost wages regardless of whether your disability is temporary or permanent. Usually, you will receive compensation based on the amount you earned at your job before the injury. A workers’ compensation attorney can see to it that you receive everything to which you are entitled so that you can continue to support yourself and your family.
Initial Medical Care
If a workplace accident or injury requires hospital care and other medical expenses, medical care compensation may be needed. This includes hospital stays, doctor visits, medication, and surgeries. Also, if your injury requires special equipment, like a wheelchair, workers’ compensation should be able to cover those expenses. Workers’ compensation also sometimes covers psychological care, such as counseling. However, each state’s laws are different, so it is important to discuss your case with an attorney who can advise you on your compensation rights.
Ongoing Rehabilitation
Sometimes work injuries need help beyond initial medication or doctor visits. Often injuries result in lasting physical issues that require rehabilitation before you can return to work. This may mean physical therapy or necessary care to help you regain the skills you need to go back to work. Rehabilitation compensation can include payment for evaluations, physical therapy, and retraining.
In Cases of Death
If you were financially dependent on a loved one who died in a workplace incident, your family may be entitled to workers’ compensation. The state will often pay for benefits to help make up for the loss of income and to help cover burial and funeral arrangements. Every state has different rules on who is entitled to receive benefits but the spouse and/or children of the deceased are usually entitled. The states also have other rules regarding benefits for unmarried individuals and stepchildren. Contact an experienced attorney for help in figuring out your benefit entitlement. Your attorney can explain your state’s policies and help you get the workers’ compensation you deserve.