What is Workers’ Compensation and How Does It Work?

Submitted by rsg on

If you suffered an injury while at work, you may be able to file a claim against your employer for workers’ compensation benefits. Each state has its own laws regarding workers’ compensation benefits, but in most states, workers’ compensation covers about two-thirds of the employee’s lost wages plus medical expenses associated with treating the injury.

How Does Workers’ Compensation Work?

Most employers are required by law to maintain workers’ compensation insurance to protect their employees. Workers’ compensation insurance provides coverage for workplace injuries and occupational disease. There is a detailed process for pursuing a workers’ compensation claim after you suffered an injury at the workplace.

There is a step-by-step process for a workers’ compensation claim. Here is a closer look at the steps for pursuing a workers’ compensation claim.

  • First, the workplace injury must take place.
  • You must seek medical attention for your injuries or disease and maintain supporting documentation for your medical care.
  • Report the injury or disease to your employer.
  • Your employer will complete a report and, in most cases, file a workers’ compensation on your behalf.
  • The workers’ compensation insurance provider will investigate your workers’ compensation claim.
  • Your claim for workers’ compensation benefits will either be approved or denied.

What Happens If a Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Approved?

If your workers’ compensation claim is approved, your employer will be notified. You will then be told of payment details. Your medical expenses should be paid, and you will need to provide with details about your lost earnings from your workplace injury or ailment. Your claim may be approved, but benefits are sometimes stopped later, and if that is the case, you may have to file an appeal or supporting documentation to get your benefits restarted.

What Happens If a Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?

If your claim for workers’ compensation benefits has been denied, you will need to file an appeal. Your notification letter will explain why your claim was denied and the process for appealing as well as the deadline to appeal. Missing the deadline will result in your claim being closed and you not being able to access workers’ compensation benefits for this claim. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you through the claims process and ensure that any appeal is filed in a timely manner.

Getting the Help You Need

If you suffered an injury in a workplace accident, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation claims can be complicated, and often, legitimate claims are denied, and workers do not get access to the benefits that they need during this challenging time.

By enlisting the help of a workers’ compensation attorney, you may be improving your chances of a successful workers’ compensation claim and getting access to the benefits, including the medical care, that you need for your injury. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to share the details with an independent, participating workers’ comp lawyer who subscribes to the website. Remember that time is of the essence because there is a limited time for pursuing a claim.

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