Have you recently had an accident on the job? If you are injured and unable to work, you may be concerned about making money and affording your bills. Worker’s compensation is responsible for helping in situations like this. Here are some important facts to help you better understand what to expect after a worksite injury.
Workers’ Compensation Might Pay a Portion of Your Income
When you experience an injury at work, it is best to seek medical attention immediately. Let the doctor know this is a work accident so that proper documentation is made on their part, and follow up by filing the appropriate paperwork with your manager. If your doctor decides that your injury requires you to take time off work for recovery, you may be entitled to money through worker’s compensation. Here are the essential facts to be aware of:
- You might be eligible for wage supplementation when you have to miss more than seven days of work.
- Each state has different regulations about this payment process, but most policies pay you at a rate of 66% of your regular wages.
- Workers Comp makes payments as a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly deposit.
You May Qualify for Partial Payment if You Return to Limited Duty
Sometimes an injury doesn’t require you to stop working entirely, but your doctor may put you on limited duty or suggest you work part-time hours. In cases like these, your income may be temporarily less than what you make in your normal position. Some states require employers to make up the wage loss by paying you at your regular rate until you return to full duty. However, if your injury requires you to work in a limited capacity for the long term, worker’s compensation is designed to help.
You Could Be Entitled to a Settlement
When an injury results in you being out of work long-term or required to remain on limited duty indefinitely, worker’s compensation may cover your lost wages. Sometimes the insurance pays you 66% of your salary for an extended period. Other times, the company may offer you a lump sum settlement based on your lost future earning potential.
Filing a claim with worker’s compensation immediately after a work injury gives you both short-term and long-term wage protection. If you believe you are owed wages from your employer after an injury, schedule an appointment with the workers compensation lawyers from Cohen & Cohen, P.C. right away.
