Getting injured while you are on the job offers you an array of benefits you may not be aware of. Workers’ compensation is designed to cover specific expenses related to injuries that occur in the workplace. The benefits associated with workers’ comp are meant to help you get through any financial difficulties you may face due to being out of work. Knowing what benefits you can avail of, will make it easier to take advantage of them.
Medical Care
One of the most important workers’ comp benefits is payment for your medical care. Doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and therapy plans are covered by your insurance. It will also cover the cost of any devices that may be needed, such as braces and wheelchairs. Many alternative therapies may be covered as well. However, take note that you may be attended to only by a doctor whom your company approves. Medical expenses can be costly, so you might be required to see an independent medical examiner to verify your injuries and determine they resulted from a work-related accident.
Rehabilitation Benefits
Rehabilitation benefits are treated as medical expenses. Therefore, your rehabilitation treatment plan picks up when you enter the recovery phase. Besides the medical expenses reimbursed, you may also be entitled to the training you need to take on a new position. This will allow you to regain the skills you had or learn a new skill set if you need to get a different job.
Disability Benefits
Disability benefits are used to compensate you for a percentage of the wages you lost due to being injured on the job. There are four main types of disability benefits that you may qualify for. These benefits may be slightly different by state but are essentially the same. They include:
- Temporary Total Disability –
Temporary total disability means you cannot work at all for a short period of time but may be able to return to work at a later date
- Temporary Partial Disability –
Temporary partial disability means that you may have to perform light duty work for a limited amount of time, but you will be able to return to work with specific restrictions
- Permanent Partial Disability –
Permanent partial disability means that you will not be able to resume your regular duties at all, but you can return to work in some capacity
- Permanent Total Disability –
Permanent total disability means that your injury was so severe that you will never be able to return to work in any capacity
Death Benefits
When an employee dies due to a work-related injury, their spouses and children (in most cases) will receive a death benefit as part of the workers’ compensation payout. In many states, a portion of the funeral expenses may also be covered. While the death benefit may not be substantial compared to a traditional life insurance policy, it will help your family get you through a very difficult time.
Understanding your workers’ compensation will also help you understand your rights if you are ever injured while on the job. It will also help you make your way through the claims process.
When you have questions about your business insurance, call the agents at McCarty Insurance. We are happy to help address your unique coverage needs.
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