Worker’s Comp Benefits – What to know

If you have been injured while on the job you may be entitled to compensation by way of worker’s compensation benefits. However, before filing your claim it is important to know some of the basic factors, elements and issues relating to worker’s compensation. This article will discuss frequently asked questions with regards to worker’s compensation benefits.

First it is important to understand that worker’s compensation is a state mandated insurance program providing benefits to employees who suffer job related injuries and illnesses. According to Investopedia "worker’s compensation is a publicly sponsored system that pays monetary benefits to workers who have become injured or disabled in the course of their employment.

Worker’s compensation is a type of insurance that offers employees compensation for injuries or disabilities sustained as a result of their employment." every state has its own laws and programs for workers compensation. Generally, an employee with a work-related illness or injury can get worker’s compensation benefits despite who was at fault for the injury or illness; be it the employer, the employee, coworker, a customer or some other third-party.

Do I have to be injured at my workplace to be covered by worker’s compensation? The answer to this question is no. However, for an employee to be eligible for worker’s compensation the employee’s injury must be job related. For example, an employee will be covered for an injury while traveling on business, doing a work-related errand or attending a required business-related social function.

Are all work-related injuries covered by worker’s compensation? Worker’s compensation covers most work-related injuries, however, not all. Generally, worker’s compensation does not cover injuries that happen as a result of an employee being intoxicated or using illegal drugs. Compensation coverage may be denied in the following situations:

Self-inflicted injuries - these include those caused by a person starting a fight

Injury suffered where a worker is committing a serious crime

Injury suffered where a worker was not on the job, and

Injuries suffered when an employee’s conduct violated company policy

Does worker’s compensation cover long-term problems and illnesses?

It must be noted that an employee’s injuries do not necessarily have to be caused by an accident in order for it to be covered by worker’s compensation. Many employees receive compensation for injuries resulting from overuse or misuse over a long period of time such as chronic back problems or repetitive stress injuries. An employee may also receive benefits for some illnesses and diseases that are due to gradual work conditions, such as carpal tunnel, heart conditions, lung disease and stress-related digestive problems.

Does worker’s compensation only cover medical bills?

Worker’s compensation does pay hospital and medical expenses necessary to diagnose and treat and employee’s injuries. However, it also provides disability payments while the employee is unable to work; which is generally about 2/3 of the employee’s salary. In some states and depending on the injury, worker’s compensation may also pay for rehabilitation, retraining and other benefits.

For legal advice and representation on issues relating to worker’s compensation speak to the best attorneys in Wasilla Ak.

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