What types of injuries does workers’ compensation cover?
Generally speaking, if you are injured on the job, you will want to learn more about the process of making a workers’ compensation claim. With this, you can receive benefits until you are able to return to work.
Many types of injuries are covered by workers’ compensation. Some of these include:
– Preexisting conditions. In the event that the workplace aggravates or accelerates an injury, you could be in line to receive workers’ compensation benefits. An example of this is a back injury that worsens due to your work responsibilities.
– Injuries resulting from physical activity. For instance, a construction worker could be injured by slipping and falling on debris.
– Diseases. Depending on the profession, you may come in close contact with toxins or other dangerous materials. Unfortunately, these have the potential to cause a serious disease, such as lung cancer.
Do you have reason to believe that you’re entitled to workers’ compensation benefits? If so, you should receive medical attention while immediately reporting the injury or illness to your employer.
If you wait too long to notify your company, they may deny your claim by stating that you were injured outside of work.
After you make a workers’ compensation claim, keep a close watch for a letter that either approves or denies your benefits. If your claim has been denied for any reason, learn more about how to file an appeal. This is a detailed step that could be the difference between receiving compensation in the future and having to find another way to support yourself until you can return to work.
Source: FindLaw, “Workers’ Comp In-Depth,” accessed Feb. 24, 2017