Accidents happen and sometimes, they happen on the job. Unfortunately, some people who are hurt while they are at work choose not to report that they have been injured. They try to continue doing their job, but then the pain becomes intolerable and they can no longer perform their duties. Although they can report it at a later date, this can often cause delays in getting benefits started.
If you are injured at work, there are certain things you should know. First, it is important to report your injury to your supervisor immediately. Since you have a right to receive medical treatment, ask to see a doctor and request a workers’ compensation form. You will not be able to receive benefits until you return the claim form to your employer, so fill it out as soon as you can.
Once your claim is processed, you are typically entitled to four types of basic benefits. These include:
— Treatment for your injuries with the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance covering the cost of all treatment for your injuries.
— Disability payments that are to be paid to you while you are temporarily unable to return to your job. These payments are considered partial compensation for your lost wages.
— Vocation rehabilitation, or rather, if you are unable to return to your job and perform your duties, you generally can receive paid training in a new type of employment. Note that this only occurs if your employer does not have a way to modify your job or an alternative job duty that you can reasonably perform.
Individuals who have been injured on the job may find beneficial information on our website about workers’ compensation and their valuable legal rights.