Learn about workers’ compensation laws and how they apply to entrepreneurs and small business employees. Ensure workplace safety and protection from injuries.
Sponsored by The Branch Insurance Group and STL Black Biz
Workers’ compensation is the mandated payment received when you are injured on the job. Workers’ compensation does vary depending upon the state you live in. However, the recipient is provided money to cover lost wages, medical expenses, and rehabilitation if necessary. Payment is also made if the worker dies on the job.
All states require companies to carry workers’ compensation. Businesses that fail to comply can face severe penalties as a result. Additionally, workers must file a claim within a certain number of days or risk their claim being denied. Employers are also required to report injuries to the Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA).
Workers’ compensation has four different types of coverages for employees:
Medical treatments – When an employee gets injured on the job, workers’ compensation will offset their medical treatment and play for other things such as doctor’s appointments, hospital visits therapy, and recovery equipment.
Disability benefits – Unfortunately, there are times when a worker can suffer disabilities ranging from partial to complete. Workers’ compensation payments can help recoup some lost wages until the employee returns to work.
Vocational rehabilitation – Workers’ compensation will pay for ongoing care if the employee needs physical therapy or retraining to learn a new skill. During rehab, the worker is still entitled to receive benefits.
Death and Funeral coverage – If the employee dies due to illness or a job-related injury, workers’ compensation will cover funeral services and provide benefits to the deceased person’s next of kin.
Workers’ compensation does provide very good benefits for employees who are injured on the job. Claimants should be aware that there are some things that workers’ compensation will not cover such as homeopathic medicines and other alternative treatments. Employees who file for workers’ compensation should speak with their counselor to get a clear understanding of the rules.
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