What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

People often think that it only covers work-related injuries, but there is much more to it than that. Workers’ compensation is an insurance system that avails benefits to employees hurt or who become sick following an occupational hazard. It is designed to help cover medical expenses and lost wages and can also provide death benefits in some cases.

Such compensation is regulated at the state level, and each state has its set of laws that define who is covered under the system and what benefits are available. There are actually two different systems that provide workers’ compensation coverage: the workers’ compensation insurance system and the state-run government fund. 

Workers’ compensation is purchased through a private insurance company in most cases, but some states manage injury claims through a state-run fund instead.

In this article, we will take a close look at what workers’ compensation covers in the United States.

What Workers’ Compensation Covers

Injured employees may be entitled to medical benefits (including hospital visits, prescription drugs, and physical therapy) as well as lost wages when they are unable to work. Death benefits can also be available if a worker succumbs to their injury or illness as a result of his occupation.

Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of injuries and illnesses, from minor problems like cuts and burns to major incidents like broken bones, head injuries, and organ damage.

However, coverage may vary by state. Some states only provide workers’ compensation for employees with employment contracts or who work in certain industries. Other states may have maximum benefit amounts or eligibility requirements.

In most cases, workers’ compensation will cover any injury or illness that is caused by or related to a person’s job. This includes accidents that happen at work, as well as injuries that develop over time as a result of the work environment.

For example, someone who has to lift heavy boxes on a regular basis may develop back problems after several years on the job. If this person needs medical treatment or is unable to work due to their injury, they will typically be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

However, some incidents might not be covered by workers’ compensation. For example, if a person is injured in a car accident on the way to work, they will typically be unable to seek benefits through their state’s workers’ compensation system. Similarly, injuries or illnesses that develop outside of work but affect someone’s ability to perform their job may also not be eligible for benefits.

If you are unsure whether your injury or illness is covered by workers’ compensation, it is very important to speak with a Boca Raton workers’ compensation attorney at Kogan & DiSalvo or contact your state’s workers’ compensation board for more information.

Overall, workers’ compensation can provide important financial assistance and medical care to employees who get ill or are injured in their workplace. Whether you have a minor injury or a major accident, workers’ compensation is there to help.

Conclusion

While workers’ compensation can provide much-needed financial assistance after an injury at work, it cannot replace the value of your health. If you have been injured on the job and need help navigating this complex system, it’s important to speak to an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can help you determine your best course of action.