Worker’s Compensation was established to protect both employers and employees. Employers can budget costs by using insurance plans to cover payments to injured workers rather than risking litigation. Employees have access to an income when unable to work due to a job related illness or injury. While Worker’s Compensation statutes are different in every state, the basic plans are very similar.

In the majority of the states, companies purchase coverage from insurance companies. Only a handful of states utilize a public plan, which is funded by mandatory payments from employers. Other states have a hybrid program. Under these arrangements, employers are to contract with insurance companies for coverage. Those that cannot obtain coverage in this manner, such as those rejected by private carriers as high risk, will pay into a public plan.

If unable to work due to an accident or job related illness, workers receive a set percentage of their normal salary while they are disabled. Sometimes, payments can continue indefinitely as long as the employee is unable to work. In other states, there is a time limit, and once this point is reached, a lump sum payment is issued and monthly disbursements are discontinued.

Medical expenses related to the covered injury or illness are covered in full or in part, depending on the state. Prescriptions, medical equipment, doctors, hospitals, physical therapy, and rehabilitation services are included.

If an employee will be able to work, but not in the position he or she held prior to the injury, most states will provide training to place the employee in a different job. For example, a factory worker who can no longer stand for long periods of time might receive computer training. In most cases, an employee who has been deemed capable of working in this new job must work or forfeit benefits.

Any worker who suffers an injury while at work should immediately notify a manager or supervisor, who will obtain any eyewitness reports and file a report. A drug test will probably be ordered for the injured worker, since alcohol or drug usage normally leads to a denial of benefits. The employee will likely be required to use the hospitals or physicians that the employer designates.

Anyone receiving payments or benefits are obligated to work with the Worker’s Compensation program toward complete recovery. Failure to obey medical orders, attend any therapy ordered, or to take part in re-training may lead to termination from the program. Benefits can also be stopped if the employee refuses to accept an altered position after being deemed capable of resuming a limited work schedule

If harmed relating to the job, or made sick by toxins or working conditions, it is important that workers report the injury and file worker’s compensation claims immediately. managers and supervisors should offer workers claims forms to fill out. It can also be intelligent to consult an attorney who specializes in worker’s compensation law, if the worker suspects the employer or the insurance company could challenge her or his claim.

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