Even if you work a sedentary job, injuries in the workplace can happen. Whether it’s a slip and fall injury or a piece of faulty equipment, being hurt while at work is no laughing matter. If you are injured on the job, you might not know what to do or even what questions you should be asking.
Below are four little-known facts you need to know about worker’s compensation and how they can affect your claim.
Procedures Vary State to State
Workers’ compensation is different in every state. Some states require employees to communicate directly with their employer to receive medical care while other states let you choose where you will receive medical care. It’s important to know what your legal rights are, and which benefits you will receive, even if you never sustain injury. Take the time to learn the specific laws in your state in addition to the procedures your company follows in case of injury.
Filing Claims
Most people don’t know that they can file claims for both personal injury and workers’ compensation. While the statute of limitations does depend on where you live, if permissible, filing for both can help you make ends meet until you’re able to return to work.
Not Everyone Is Eligible
Not everyone who is injured on the job is eligible to file for workers’ compensation. Freelancers usually aren’t eligible for workers’ compensation unless it is specifically agreed upon in their contract. However, if you’re a freelancer and you were injured on the job, you may still qualify for personal injury reimbursement. In most cases, you will require the expertise of a lawyer.
A personal injury lawyer can help you determine if you can file a personal injury claim. Personal injury lawyers specialize in tort law, or cases where the claimant has sustained physical or psychological injury. Your lawyer can represent you in court and act as a liaison with your place of employment to help you receive compensation.
Benefits Do Not Cover Total Salary
Injured employees are often shocked to discover that their disability benefit does not replace their entire paycheck. Usually, disability payments only replace a portion of monthly salary. You may find it difficult to pay all of your monthly expenses. Because of this, you need to inquire whether you can file personal injury claims as well.
If you’re injured on the job, the most important thing is your well-being. Take the necessary steps and seek medical attention if needed. Even if you don’t sustain significant injury, you should still see your family physician or one that’s assigned to you by your employer to ensure that you’re okay and don’t need further treatment.
Author information: Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University and now writes articles about health, business, family, and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.
