At its core, workers' compensation is a type of insurance that exists to protect both employees and employers. It provides financial assistance and medical benefits to employees who are injured or become ill while on the job, while also protecting employers from costly lawsuits and legal actions.
In fact, according to the National Safety Council, workplace injuries and illnesses cost employers nearly $170 billion each year in lost productivity and medical expenses. Without workers' compensation, both employees and employers would be left vulnerable to the financial and personal costs of these injuries and illnesses.
But what exactly qualifies as a workplace injury or illness? The answer is broad and encompasses a wide range of situations, from accidents and injuries caused by unsafe working conditions to illnesses caused by exposure to hazardous materials. Regardless of the nature of the injury or illness, workers' compensation exists to provide a safety net for those affected.
What Is Covered Under Workers Compensation?
When an employee gets injured or sick due to work-related activities, they may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. In the United States, each state has its own set of workers' compensation laws and regulations.
According to the National Safety Council, there were 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in the private sector in 2019. This highlights the importance of having a strong workers' compensation system in place to protect employees.
Workers' compensation benefits can cover a wide range of injuries and illnesses, including physical injuries like broken bones and sprains, as well as diseases related to workplace exposure such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.
It's important for employees to understand their rights and options when it comes to workers' compensation. Our team of professionals can help guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
Who Is Eligible for Workers Compensation?
As an injured worker, you may be wondering if you are eligible for workers' compensation. The answer is that most employees are covered by workers' compensation insurance. According to the National Safety Council, every seven seconds, a worker is injured on the job. This means that thousands of workers are eligible for workers' compensation benefits every day.
Workers' compensation benefits are designed to provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses related to a workplace injury. However, it's important to note that not all injuries are covered by workers' compensation. For example, if an injury occurred while the employee was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if the injury was self-inflicted, the employee may not be eligible for benefits.
It's also important to understand that workers' compensation is a no-fault system. This means that regardless of who was at fault for the injury, the injured worker is entitled to benefits. As our team of professionals at Workers Comp Visalia can attest, it's crucial to seek the advice of an experienced workers' compensation lawyer to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
