When you fall off your office chair and damage your skull, get sick due to poor work conditions or slice your finger off working in the deli, your workers’ compensation must pay for the lost workdays and medical expenses.
Unfortunately, many workers don’t know important factors about their compensation rights if they get injured at work. This means they may have to pay out of their pockets and bear the hassles that come along. To help you stay vigilant about your compensation rights due to workplace injuries, we have compiled a list of seven things you must know. Take a look.
1. You are Covered from the Get-Go
Your worker’s compensation starts from the day you join your workplace. There is no probationary period for most injuries. So, if you get hurt on your first day, in all likelihood, your workers’ compensation will cover you.
Make sure you take these steps to be sure your coverage starts from day one:
- Inform your employer about any pre-existing injuries as soon as you get hired.
- If your job requires a physical examination, get it done on the first day.
- Contact the HR or operations department to confirm if additional documents are required.
2. You Don’t Need to Prove Who’s at Fault
In most cases of workplace injuries, it is difficult to determine the mistake at first glance. And this can often lead to a lot of finger-pointing between the employer and employee. The good news is that in most workers’ compensation cases, you don’t need to prove who was at fault. If you have sustained any kind of injury at your workplace, you are most likely entitled to compensation.
3. You Are Covered for All On-the-Job Injuries
Injuries don’t always happen due to a workplace accident. Sometimes, they occur due to repetitive motions or strain. For instance, carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the hands and wrists due to the repetitive use of these body parts. If you develop such an injury, workers’ compensation will cover it.
The same goes for mental injuries caused by work-related stress. If you are diagnosed with depression or anxiety because of your job, you can file for workers’ compensation benefits.
4. You Don’t Need to Wait for Your Employer’s Approval
If you get injured at work, seek medical help immediately and inform your employer about it as soon as possible. In most cases, your employer will report the injury to their workers’ compensation insurance provider. However, if they don’t do so or think they are taking too long, you can file a claim yourself. Considering the workers’ compensation statute of limitations can vary by state, it’s crucial to file your claim as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline. Delaying your claim could result in losing your right to compensation, so act quickly to protect your benefits.
5. You Can Choose Your Doctor
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to visit the doctor chosen by your employer or their insurance company. You have the freedom to select your physician. However, keep in mind that your employer may require you to see their company doctor for a second opinion.
6. Workers’ Compensation Coverage is Extensive
Your workers’ compensation covers your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages. If you miss work because of a workplace injury, you can receive benefits that cover a part of your lost wages. In most states, these benefits are around two-thirds of your regular pay.
7. You May Be Entitled to Additional Benefits
Your employer may entitle you to certain vocational rehabilitation and permanent partial disability benefits. This means that if your workplace injury leaves you with a permanent disability, you may be eligible for benefits that help you cover the costs of retraining or job placement.
Bonus Tip: Contact a Workplace Injury Lawyer
If you get injured at the workplace, and your employer refuses to compensate for your injury, you have the right to contest your compensation. A work accident attorney Las Vegas can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Final Word
Knowing about your compensation rights can go a long way in looking after yourself at work. We hope the above tips were helpful.