Worker’s Compensation – What You Need to Know

Have you suffered an injury while on the job and are wondering what to do? One way you can reduce your costs and get yourself back on your feet is by filing for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is a form of disability insurance that protects workers in case of an injury or illness while they are on the job. Worker’s compensation can be tricky, but if you know how to file for workers comp, you can get the medical treatment you need fast, as well as coverage for lost wages and other benefits. Here’s how it works, plus the best places to go for help with your worker’s compensation claim.

What is Worker’s Comp?

In general, worker’s compensation is a form of insurance that employers can purchase to cover medical expenses and lost wages for workers who have been injured in on-the-job accidents. In most cases, you must be employed by an employer who has purchased worker’s compensation insurance before you can file a claim. If you aren’t sure about your state laws or your employer’s policy, talk with a local lawyer for help.

Things That Might Delay a Claim

Worker’s compensation claims typically take between three and six months, but there are several factors that can affect how long it takes for your claim to be processed. If you plan on filing a claim, try to have as much paperwork ready before you file as possible. Even if your employer doesn’t give you all of what they’re required to at first, get whatever you can; it might make it more difficult for your case if something isn’t filed correctly or on time. 

Things to be Aware of When Filing

When you’re hurt at work, you may have to file for worker’s compensation. The process isn’t as simple as it seems, however, and there are some things that you should be aware of before filing. Let’s look at a few of them now.

How Much Does it Cost?

If you have a minor injury and don’t need time off work, it might not be worth your time or money to file for worker’s compensation. In general, costs start at around $2,000 but vary depending on circumstances and, in some cases, can be well over $5,000. When determining whether filing is worth it, look at what it will cost you—how much are your wages from work, and how much will you earn from disability if you take time off?

Do I Qualify for Workers’ Comp?

The first step to filing for workers’ compensation is determining whether you qualify. If you’re an employee of a company, you should know if your employer offers workers’ comp insurance—and it’s also a good idea to know what types of accidents are covered and for how much. Workers’ comp insurance will cover specific injuries and illnesses sustained on the job, but depending on your contract or agreement with your employer, it may not cover all accidents or illnesses.

Where Can I Get Help filing for workers comp?

If you have suffered a work-related injury and need help filing for worker’s compensation, there are resources out there. The first place to look is your employer or your employee benefits administrator; these professionals should be able to provide guidance in how you should proceed. If they can’t, ask them who they would recommend you see—they may even be able to refer you.

For further information about filing for worker’s compensation benefits, please call Logan-Thompson, P.C. at 423-476-2251 or find them online at loganthompsonlaw.com.