Workers’ compensation is nothing but a type of insurance that benefits employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. This type of insurance is mandatory in most states and covers various injuries and illnesses.
Though workers comp insurance will provide medical expenses and lost wages for injuries that happen while you were on duty, there are certain exemptions and conditions to get workers’ compensation. Visit the page about workers comp insurance to know about the types of injuries and illnesses covered under workers’ compensation insurance or read on.
Injuries Covered Under Compensation Insurance
As per OSHA and the National Safety Council(NSC), some of the common workplace injuries covered under a comp insurance include
- Cuts, lacerations, and punctures
- Bone fractures
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Repetitive strain or stress (RSIs), such as carpal tunnel, tendonitis, and back pain
- Muscle sprains, strains, and tears
Below is the list of “fatal four” incidents that happen more often at the workplace. And, workers comp insurance covers these injuries.
- Electrocution
- Falls
- Getting crushed or stuck between objects
- Being struck by an object or equipment
Conditions That Govern Workplace Accident Injuries
Suppose an employee sustains an injury at work. In that case, it’s crucial to determine what caused the wound so that a company can take appropriate steps to prevent them in the future and hold the person or company accountable. Unfortunately, in some cases, there may not always be one clear answer as to the cause of workplace injuries. Still, these five possibilities should provide insight into how you might want to consider possible contributing factors when determining why your loved ones were hurt on company property or had their hours cut.
- Another individual or individual wrongfully assaulted the injured person.
- The attacker(s) committed assault as part of their employment duties, which is illegal under most circumstances without permission from management.
- The worker was engaged in unlawful activities.
- The worker did not follow the company’s safety rules and policy.
- The worker was intoxicated or under the influence of drugs when the accident occurred.
Remember, the workers’ compensation coverage is only available to company employees. If a conductor or sub-contractor employs you, you cannot demand compensation from the company though you were injured at work. Such employees need to contact their contractor or subcontractor.
What Should You Do After You Are Injured While on Duty?
If you are injured at work, you must report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. You should then file a workers’ compensation claim with your state’s compensation board. If you want to increase your chances of getting your claim approved, include all relevant information and documentation, such as medical records and bills.
An attorney can help you understand your state’s laws and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Alternatively, you can visit the page about workers comp insurance to know what to do after getting injured in a workplace accident.
How to Qualify for Workers Compensation Claim?
You must meet specific eligibility requirements to qualify for a workers’ compensation claim. For example, most states require that you have been injured or become ill due to your work to file a claim. You must also report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
Additionally, you must typically file your claim within a specific time frame, such as within 30 days of the injury. If you do not meet these requirements, your claim may be denied.
If you have been injured at work, it is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. It will not only ensure that you receive the treatment you need, but it will also provide documentation of your injuries. It’s essential to keep all your medical records and bills, as you will need to submit them when you file your workers’ compensation claim.
If you are experiencing any financial hardship due to your injuries, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help you cover the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and more.