If you are an employee of the state who suffers from an occupational disease or you have suffered an on the job injury, you might be left wondering if you can receive workers’ compensation as a state employee. Every state sets its own workers’ compensation laws. State employee benefits are governed by special state statute or the same regulations used for private workers depending on the state in which you live. Your state workers’ compensation statute determines whether you are covered through the state’s standard workers’ compensation regulations or if your coverage falls under another provision. How To Learn About Workers’ Compensation If you are a state employee and you want to learn about your state workers’ compensation benefits, there should be a poster displayed at your place of employment. This poster is usually in a break room or by a time clock. It should explain the workers’ compensation claims process, how to file a claim, and what benefits you will receive. Usually, in the same vicinity, is a list of workers’ compensation-approved medical providers you can use for treating your work-related illness or injury. If you cannot find these details, ask a supervisor or call your state’s human resources department, since you are employed by the state. Workers’ Compensation Benefits While state laws vary and while a special statute might apply to state employees where you are located, compensation benefits are pretty much across the board. They include medical benefits to cover the cost of your medical care for your injury or illness and they cover a portion of your lost wages while you are recovering. Usually, that is about two-thirds your regular salary. In some cases or in some states, other benefits might be included. For example, if you are unable to return to the same job, vocational retraining might be included. Filing A Claim While there might be special guidelines for state employees where you live, you have a procedure with specific deadlines that must be met. You will need to notify your employer, usually a supervisor or the human resources department, as soon as possible about your injury or illness. You will need to choose a medical provider from the approved list. You should then continue with the necessary follow-up care and follow through with the physician’s orders. Document all missed work and lost wages. You should keep copies of all medical records and all work excuses. As soon as possible, you should jot down notes about your incident because you will have to give a detailed statement for the accident report. Make sure your employer is aware of any witnesses, so they can give statements for the accident report as well. Consult With A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you have been injured on the job as a state employee, you should consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer. With the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer, you can improve your odds of a successful claim. Get your free case review today, so you can get your claim on the right track. Additional Resources Workers' Compensation By State Do I Need to Hire a WC Lawyer from the State I Was Injured In?
