Workers may need help after a job-related injury. In most cases, the employer covers their hurt workers with insurance. Private workers' compensation insurance is required for most jobs. The employer arranges for insurance for every worker, and they are covered from day one on the job. When a worker is hurt, this form of insurance is supposed to pay workers several valuable benefits. Read to learn more about those benefits.
Medical Treatment
Everything connected to a work injury is covered and that can begin with medical transport to the emergency room if necessary. All aspects of your care are covered. However, doctor's orders are required for all care. If you must see a specialist, your primary workers' compensation doctor must refer you.
Your workers' compensation doctor, as assigned by the insurer, is in charge of your care. This doctor will treat you, refer you for any diagnostic testing, and order you to remain home if you are judged to be unable to work. Caution is advised when dealing with workers' compensation doctors. Contact the insurer if you don't agree with a doctor's orders. Be on the lookout for substandard medical care. If your needs are not being taken seriously by the insurer, contact a workers' compensation lawyer about your problems.
Disability Pay
This benefit may be known by various names. If the doctor orders you to remain at home while you recuperate, you may be eligible to receive a check. These payments won't be as much as your normal salary and they may be paid weekly or otherwise. The amount varies by state.
These payments are not taxed, and no deductions are taken from them. If you encounter problems with your pay while out of work and healing from your work injury, speak first with the insurer and then with a workers' compensation lawyer. Some insurers send checks late, cut the checks off unexpectedly for no reason, or send an inadequate amount. You may be owed interest along with penalty payments if the insurer is failing to properly provide you with benefits.
Settlements
If you are found to be permanently affected by a work injury, you could be eligible for a settlement payment. Workers who are unable to return to their previous job or any job might be offered a settlement. This amount you get depends on several factors and the final sum is negotiable. Let a workers' compensation lawyer negotiate on your behalf to ensure you are paid what you deserve.
For more information, contact a workers comp attorney near you.