Did you know that every year, 2.6 million nonfatal workplace accidents and injuries occur in the private sector of the US economy?

While nobody signs up for an injury on the job, if the worst does happen, you can count on workers’ compensation benefits to help lift you back up.

Like many benefits you receive at work, not everyone understands the ins and outs of workers comp. In other words, you might have a few questions like, “How does workers compensation work?”

We get it! It can be complex and often confusing. That is why we’ve put together a quick and easy guide to help you. Read on to learn everything about workers’ compensation. 

What Is Workers’ Compensation? 

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that is provided by employers. It protects workers who may become injured or ill as a result of the work they do. It assists with the medical costs and, in some cases, lost wages due to an inability to work.

So, How Does Workers Compensation Work?

To become eligible for workers’ compensation, an employee must prove that their injury or illness is due to the employment. The injury or illness must have occurred in the course and scope of their work.

To receive workers’ compensation, employees must contact their state workers’ compensation office and complete the necessary paperwork to file the claim. The paperwork typically includes information about the following:

  • the circumstances that led to the injury
  • the extent of the injury or illness
  • the medical treatment the injured or ill individual is currently receiving or expecting

Once the paperwork is filled out, the state workers’ compensation office will review the case and determine eligibility for compensation. If an individual is deemed eligible, they will receive funds to cover medical and other related expenses.

In some cases, an employee may need workers compensation attorney to help them obtain full compensation for their injuries. They can help an employee who is wrongfully denied their workers’ compensation claim and fight any appeals.

Benefits of Worker Compensation Claims

Workers’ compensation claims provide much-needed financial assistance to employees injured in the line of their working duties. Compensation benefits can help compensate for an employee’s medical costs, lost wages, and other injury-related costs.

Additionally, if the employer causes the injury, the employee may be entitled to additional benefits. This can include job and salary protection. Additional benefits may include a lump sum payment to make up for lost wages and the cost of medical care.

In some cases, an employer must also pay for the emotional and mental trauma caused by the injury.

What Injuries Are Covered in a Worker’s Comp Claim?

Injuries covered in a worker’s comp claim usually cover any illnesses or injuries sustained during a workday, even if the accident happened outside the workplace. This includes damages caused by the following:

  • falls
  • slips
  • trips
  • chemical exposure
  • repetitive stress Syndrome
  • other work-related causes

Certain conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, may be covered if the employee’s job requires a particular performance contributing to the injury. It also covers illnesses and injuries during work travel, outings, and other activities.

File Your Workers Compensation Claim Today

Workers’ compensation is an invaluable safety net for all employees in the event of on-the-job injuries. Knowing how does workers compensation work and taking the necessary steps can help employees receive the compensation they deserve.

Take action now to ensure you receive the full workers’ compensation benefits. Start filing your workers’ compensation claim today!

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