State-mandated workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill on the job. The program is intended to assist employees with medical costs and lost wages while they are unable to work.
Employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance in the majority of states. A few states, however, permit employers to opt-out of the program. If you are an employer in one of these states, you must be aware of your legal rights and responsibilities. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of workers’ compensation insurance.
What Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
Workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their employment. Workers’ compensation can assist in covering medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. It can also provide death benefits to the family of an employee who passes away due to an injury or illness sustained on the job.
Workers’ compensation is required in the majority of states, and employers are typically responsible for carrying insurance. Some states permit employers to self-insure, but this option is typically reserved for larger companies.
When an employee is injured on the job, workers’ compensation can provide much-needed financial assistance. And as an employer, you should be aware of your workers’ compensation obligations.
What Is Covered By A Workers’ Compensation Policy?
Typically, a workers’ compensation policy will cover medical expenses, wage loss, and death benefits. It can also cover costs associated with rehabilitation and vocational training.
- Lost Wages
If you are unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation can assist you by replacing a portion of your income. State to state, the number of covered lost wages will vary.
- Death Benefits
if an employee dies due to a work-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation may provide death benefits to the employee’s family. These benefits may assist with funeral and burial costs.
- Medical Expenses
Typically, workers’ compensation will cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to an injury or illness sustained on the job. This can include hospitalization, surgery, prescription medications, and physical therapy.
- Vocational Education
If you are unable to return to your previous job due to an injury or illness sustained on the job, workers’ compensation can provide vocational training to assist you. This can help you acquire new skills for a job search.
- Rehabilitative Expenses
If you require rehabilitation due to an injury or illness sustained on the job, workers’ compensation can assist you by covering the cost of rehabilitation services. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy costs.
What Is Excluded From Workers’ Compensation Coverage?
- If your work-related injury was caused by a pre-existing condition, workers’ compensation may not cover it.
- If you intentionally injure yourself on the job, it will not be covered by workers’ compensation.
- Workers’ compensation will not cover injuries sustained outside of work.
- Workers’ compensation will not cover injuries sustained while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Conclusion
Please get in touch with Gaylord & Nantais Attorneys at Law if you wish to learn more about workers’ compensation or require assistance with a workers’ compensation claim. We can assist you in comprehending your legal rights and options, and we will fight for the compensation you are entitled to. Call us today at (562) 561-2669.
