What Workers’ Comp Coverage Includes for Employees
Construction remains one of the most dangerous industries in the US, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, it’s been reported that there have been 1,075 work fatalities from the sites.
Injured workers can file claims through workers’ compensation insurance. And with the workers’ comp coverage, employees who suffer injuries or illnesses while performing their job can be protected financially and assisted in their recovery.
In addition to this, workers’ comp may also extend to work-related mental health conditions or occupational diseases.
Here’s what workers’ compensation includes to ensure that workers receive the assistance they deserve in the aftermath of a workplace accident.
Understanding Medical Benefits
How do medical benefits under workers’ compensation work?
Workers who suffer injury at work can receive benefits that cover their essential medical treatments. Part of the benefit includes visits to a doctor, hospital stays, surgery, and even rehabilitative processes.
With workers’ comp, injured workers won’t worry about paying for such treatment. Promptly report your injury and follow your employer’s prescribed procedure to ensure seamless access to these benefits.
Workers’ compensation lawyer Briana E. Chua advises you to have an attorney review any determination of permanent disability benefits to make sure that these are calculated correctly or at least so you understand your options.
You are not alone here; your employer is there to assist you through this process. When you understand your medical benefits, you can focus on healing and returning to your normal living since you know there is support when it becomes crucial.
Wage Loss Compensation Explained
When you lose your ability to work due to a work-related injury, wage loss compensation can act as crucial financial support. A portion of your income that is lost is paid as this benefit. Usually, about two-thirds of your average weekly wage is paid, depending on your state.
The compensation allows you to maintain some degree of financial security while you recuperate. It is always important to file your claim immediately so that there is no delay in receiving the benefits you deserve.
Many workers take comfort in knowing that they are not alone in this trying time; Wage Loss compensation is available to help you through it so you can concentrate on healing and getting back to work.
Rehabilitation Services and Support
In some cases, injured workers may need rehabilitative services. This is also part of the services to provide in the physical healing of the injured employee. Simultaneously, it fosters confidence and necessary skills needed for the worker to resume their work duties.
Typical services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. Such interventions aim to match the skills necessary so that the injured person can effectively cope with his recovery.
If you choose to participate in these rehabilitation programs, you will not be going through the recovery process alone- there will be several others who will understand what you are going through. Also, the workers’ compensation insurance of your employer should cover these services so that you get insured for your aid.
In using rehabilitation, one is merely healing; another is preparing for the rejoining of his team, which provides belonging and purpose at his place of work.
Coverage for Permanent Disabilities
Once a rehabilitation process has concluded, an employee could be challenged long-term, eventually leading to permanent disability. You are supposed to know that you are still eligible for payment under workers’ compensation if you find yourself unable to work.
On the other hand, permanent disability achieves wage replacement and medical reimbursements relating to your condition or may give you lump-sum settlements depending on how severe your disability is.
In other words, your disability benefits will ensure that you are not facing your challenges alone and that you can afford even a semblance of quality of life. Your employer has an obligation to assist you, so consider sharing your story with others.
Guidance will present you with options to proceed independently and increase the likelihood of receiving your deserved benefits.
Death Benefits for Dependents
When a worker is dying due to an injury or illness arising out of and in the course of employment, the dependents may collect death benefits under workers’ compensation. These benefits may include funeral expenses and may also provide an average income to the surviving family members to somewhat ease their burden during a trying time.
“Dependents” usually means spouses, children, or other persons who have somehow come to be dependent upon the contributor for support. Death benefits vary in duration and amount according to the state; thus, one must check into local laws.
To ensure dependents feel secure after a worker dies, one must know these benefits. These benefits stand as a pillar for your bereaved family; you are not alone in this ordeal.
