What do workers' compensation benefits actually cover?
Suffering an injury at work is more than an inconvenience. It affects your financial well-being and is a direct threat to the future of your career. You know that is it is critical to receive medical care and compensation for your accident-related losses, but actually securing those benefits can be a long and arduous process.
You may know that you have the right to workers’ compensation benefits after a Nebraska work accident, but you may need to familiarize yourself with what that means. Knowing your rights is the first step toward ensuring your full protection, and arming yourself with the right information can help you in your fight for the benefits you need.
So what does it cover?
Most employers have to abide by the legal requirement to have workers’ compensation insurance coverage. The intent of this is to ensure that workers have a way to get help when injured, but it also provides a measure of protection for the employers as well. The amount and type of benefits available depends largely upon the nature of the injury and how much time a worker will need to recover.
In most cases, an injured worker can receive benefits no matter whom or what was at fault for their work accident. Typically, an injured worker can receive benefits that cover the following:
- Restitution for permanent injuries
- Medical care and ongoing medical needs
- Vocational retraining
- Death benefits for surviving family members
- Replacement of lost wages
When a worker files for and receives workers’ compensation benefits, he or she relinquishes the right to sue his or her employer. This type of financial support is not only available to victims of one-time accidents, but also to individuals who suffer from repetitive stress injuries or occupational illnesses.
Protecting your interests after a work accident
After a work accident, you may feel overwhelmed about what you should do next. After reporting it, is there anything more you can do? Fortunately, there are ways you can actively protect your interests. You may find it beneficial to reach out for help, not only for an explanation of your rights, but for experienced guidance when completing the paperwork and dealing with appeals.
A work accident can change your life in an instant. From expensive medical bills to losing income, the impact can be serious. There is no time to lose, but you would be wise to move quickly to fight for the benefits to which you may have a rightful claim.