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Workers’ compensation is something that protects most workers in the United States. If you were injured while performing your work duties, you might have coverage, as a workers compensation lawyer, like from The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, can explain to you. You might also have a lot of questions. The following are some questions and answers about workers’ compensation.
Is There a Deadline?
Just like any other type of insurance claim, there is a deadline for workers’ compensation. First, you have the responsibility of reporting the accident to your employer. Depending on the state in which you work and live, you might have five days to make the report, or you might have 30 days. Some states just ask that you do it “as soon as possible.”
After you have made the report, your employer has a certain amount of time to file the workers’ compensation claim. Again, this varies by state, so be sure your employer understands that. For example, in Alabama there is a two year statute of limitations, whereas in Idaho there is no time limit, and in Hawaii there is a five year limit.
What Damages Can Be Recovered?
In a workers’ compensation case, your medical expenses are covered by the insurance starting day one. This means if your injury resulted in a ride to the ER in an ambulance, the ER and the ambulance are paid for. Other damages include lost wages, ongoing care, illnesses and other similar medical expenses. You do not receive compensation for pain and suffering, though you could sue another party if that’s something you’re interested in.
Who Pays for Workers’ Compensation?
As an employee, you do not have to pay any workers’ compensation premiums. Each state requires workers’ compensation, and it’s the responsibility of the employer to purchase the policy and offer it to employees. Unlike health insurance and life insurance, nothing comes out of your paycheck.
When Do You Receive Payment?
Depending on the state in which you live and work, and depending on the workers’ compensation policy, you might receive frequent payments, or they might be spread out. Some injured employees are given benefits once per week, while others are paid one per month. You should speak with the workers’ compensation board in your state to understand how it will work for you so you can make the funds last the entire month.
Contact a Lawyer To Learn More
Chances are you have a lot of additional questions. Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer today to learn more.
