Getting Familiar With The Basics Of Worker\’s Compensation
By Terry Stanfield
Worker’’s Compensation plans were initiated in an effort to protect both employers and employees. They are beneficial to employers because the plans protect them from lawsuit. This enables them to accurately budget expenses for claims. Employees benefit because they can continue to receive cash payments while injured, along with some or all of related medical costs. While Worker’’s Compensation statutes differ between states, the basic remain the same.
In most states, employers contract with private insurance companies for coverage. A few states maintain a public fund, to which employers must contribute, to pay claims to injured workers. Some states use a combination of the two methods. Most employers carry private insurance and the state steps in to cover employers that insurers reject.
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.
Should an employee be deemed fit for work in a different position other than the one held prior to the incident, most states furnish training for the new job. For example, someone whose previous position required standing all day, but who can no longer do so, might be trained as a computer operator. If an employee refuses to accept the training or the position may have to forfeit future benefits.
Anyone injured in the workplace should report such injury immediately to a member of management. The manager or supervisor will obtain statements from all who witnessed the incident. The injured worker will usually be tested for drugs, since alcohol or illegal drugs are normally grounds for denying a claim. Normally, there are doctors and hospitals designated by the employer or his insurance company for treatment throughout the claim period.
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 often leads 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 on the job, or made ill by toxins or working conditions, it is critical that workers report the injury and file worker’’s compensation claims immediately. managers and supervisors should offer workers claims forms to fill out. It may also be wise 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.
About The Author
Before you do anything, go to Hyland and Padilla to get more information about Worker’’s Compensation. http://www.hylandandpadilla.com/work-related-injuries.html