What Are Worker's Compensation Benefits
Worker's Compensation was established to protect both employers and employees. Employers can budget costs by using insurance plans to cover payments to injured workers rather than risking litigation. Employees have access to an income when unable to work due to a job related illness or injury. While Worker's Compensation statutes are different in every state, the basic plans are very similar.
In the majority of the states, companies purchase coverage from insurance companies. Only a handful of states utilize a public plan, which is funded by mandatory payments from employers. Other states have a hybrid program. Under these arrangements, employers are to contract with insurance companies for coverage. Those that cannot obtain coverage in this manner, such as those rejected by private carriers as high risk, will pay into a public plan.
In general, workers who are injured on the job, whether from accident or occupational illness, are entitled to receive a percentage of their salary until they can return to work. There is usually a waiting period of several days before the program begins. In some states, payments continue until the employee can resume normal work duties, even if this takes years. Other states pay for a set time frame, after which a lump sum settlement is made if the employee still cannot work.
Medical expenses related to the covered injury or illness are covered in full or in part, depending on the state. Prescriptions, medical equipment, doctors, hospitals, physical therapy, and rehabilitation services are included.
If an employee is able to work, but not at the position he or she held prior to the injury, most states will provide training to place the employee in a different job. For example, a factory worker who can no longer stand for long periods of time might receive computer training. In most cases, an employee who has been deemed capable of working in this new job must work or forfeit benefits.
Anyone injured in the workplace should report such injury immediately to a member of management. The manager or supervisor will obtain statements from all who witnessed the incident. The injured worker will usually be tested for drugs, since alcohol or illegal drugs are normally grounds for denying a claim. Normally, there are doctors and hospitals designated by the employer or his insurance company for treatment throughout the claim period.
Anyone receiving payments or benefits are obligated to work with the Worker's Compensation program toward complete recovery. Failure to obey medical orders, attend any therapy ordered, or to take part in re-training often leads to termination from the program. Benefits can also be stopped if the employee refuses to accept an altered position after being deemed capable of resuming a limited work schedule
If hurt on the job, or made sick by toxins or working conditions, it is vital that workers report the injury and file worker's compensation claims immediately. managers and supervisors should offer workers claims forms to fill out. It can also be a good idea to consult an attorney who specializes in worker's compensation law, if the worker suspects the employer or the insurance company could challenge his / her claim.
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