Workers’ compensation benefits in Mississippi are a valuable resource available to injured workers that can help them through a vulnerable period in their lives following a workplace injury. Workers’ compensation benefits can help injured workers with many of the struggles they face after being hurt on the job which is why they should be familiar with what those resources look like.
Workers’ compensation benefits include benefits for medical services and equipment that are reasonably necessary and it is also important to be aware that the injured worker is free to choose their own medical care provider. Death benefits are also available for surviving spouses and some dependents if the worker dies because of a workplace injury or illness. Funeral expenses up to $5,000 may be available to surviving family members of workers killed on the job. It is important to note that workers’ compensation benefits are available to workers who are injured on the job or suffer from a workplace illness.
Additionally, workers’ compensation benefits provide compensation for a decrease in earning capacity while the injured worker is temporarily partially disabled. During that time, the worker typically receives two-thirds of their average weekly wage for a maximum of 450 weeks. Workers’ compensation benefits can also help with permanent partial disability to compensate the injured worker if they can return to work but earn less than they did before they were injured. Permanent total disability benefits may also be available to the injured worker which is typically compensated at two-thirds of their average weekly wage for a maximum of 450 weeks.
Workers’ compensation benefits are oftentimes a vital lifeline to help injured workers get through one of the hardest times in their life. As a result, they should be familiar with the different benefits available to them and how they may be able to help them in their situation.