Although several federal and state regulations dictate workplace safety for various industries, the most renowned regulatory body being the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), employees might be prone to accidents due to lapses in enforcement of safety systems, human error, or the intrinsically dangerous nature of some employment sectors. Workers who incur such injuries at their job might wonder whether they can obtain compensation for their monetary and non-monetary losses. Workers’ compensation is a form of employment benefit that allows employees to seek financial compensation for any work-related injuries or illnesses encountered at the workplace. While most public and private organizations offer these benefits, it is important to note that they have strict qualification criteria and limitations that vary between different cases.
Treatment Coverage
According to the legal team at Kogan & DiSalvo Personal Lawyers, workers’ compensation covers any treatment required for work-related illness or injury that might be crucial to return to reasonable health. As such, it covers any hospital visits or stays, medical consultations, surgical procedures, medications, physical or occupational therapy, diagnostic tests and procedures, prostheses, and more. This coverage does not include treatment for pre-existing medical conditions, illnesses unrelated to work, unauthorized or experimental treatments, and treatments that are not covered by the employer’s insurance provider. It is important to note that this coverage is limited to a reasonable standard dictated by the state or federal laws and insurance providers, and any excessive medications or procedures might not be allowed. Additionally, depending on the company and its insurance provisions, you might be allowed a limited number of sessions per treatment or rehabilitation type.
How to Get Workers’ Compensation?
If you or your loved one suffered an injury at their workplace and want to know how to apply for workers’ compensation, you should follow a series of steps to protect your legal rights. The foremost step is reporting the illness or injury to your employer immediately after the incident or discovery. You should seek prompt medical attention and keep a record of all medical or surgical procedures, medications, rehabilitation, and more for future reference. When you file your claim with the employer or their insurance provider, you will be required to submit proof of injury or illness along with the bills and medical records for any treatment received. Depending on your claim, additional documentation might be requested. Consulting a lawyer before filing a claim can be invaluable for a successful outcome. A lawyer who is well-versed in such cases can help you gather all evidence and file a timely claim to make the best of your situation.
Conclusion
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance coverage offered by employers to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses related to their work. The coverage offered by employers, or their insurance companies is limited strictly to reasonable medical or surgical care within the confines of the regulations specified by them. Employers are required to provide these benefits to keep their employees safe. Failure to do so is dangerous on their part. Having a lawyer consult with you on your case can help you obtain a favorable outcome and obtain compensation for your physical and emotional losses. It’s in your best interest to reach out to one in your area immediately after your accident.
