Workers’ compensation benefits can help injured workers and their families with the aftermath of a workplace injury or if they are suffering with an occupation illness. Though the workers’ compensation system is a no-fault system, and most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, injured workers do not automatically receive benefits.
Because workers’ compensation benefits are not automatic, it is important for injured workers and their families to know how to obtain he benefits the need. Workers’ compensation benefits can help with medical expenses and lost wages. The first step in obtaining workers’ compensation benefits is to seek the medical attention that the injured worker needs. It is then necessary for the injured worker to report the accident and injury to the employer.
There are different reporting and application time limits associated with the workers’ compensation application process that can vary by state so it is important for the injured worker to be familiar with the requirements in their state. Typically, information that the injured worker will need to provide includes the type of injury the victim suffered; what areas of the body were impacted by the injury; the date, time and location of the injury; how the accident occurred; the parties involved in the accident; and the medical treatment the injured worker received.
Familiarity with what workers’ compensation benefits can do for injured workers and their families and how to apply for benefits is useful to have. It can help injured workers receive the benefits they need and that are available to them.
