Workers’ compensation, often shortened to workers’ comp, is a government-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to workers who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. It’s essentially a safety net for employees who get hurt or sick on the job, ensuring they receive financial and medical support without having to sue their employer.
Here’s how it works:
Employers are required by law to have workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance covers the costs of medical care, lost wages, and other expenses related to a work-related injury or illness.
If you get hurt or sick on the job, you should report the injury or illness to your employer immediately. Your employer will then file a claim with their workers’ compensation insurance provider.
The insurance provider will investigate the claim and determine whether it is covered. If the claim is covered, the insurance provider will start paying you benefits.
Benefits may include:
- Medical care: This covers the cost of all necessary medical treatment, including doctor visits, surgery, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: You will receive a portion of your regular wages while you are unable to work.
- Disability benefits: If you are permanently disabled as a result of your injury or illness, you may receive ongoing disability payments.
- Death benefits: If you die from a work-related injury or illness, your dependents may receive death benefits.
It’s important to note that in exchange for receiving workers’ compensation benefits, you typically give up your right to sue your employer for negligence. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as if your employer intentionally caused your injury or illness.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about workers’ compensation:
- The specific benefits you are entitled to will vary depending on the state you live in and the severity of your injury or illness.
- You should always keep copies of all medical records and documentation related to your injury or illness.
- If you have any questions about workers’ compensation, you should contact your employer or your state’s workers’ compensation board.
