If you have been injured while working, you can file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance program that protects employers and their employees in the event of a workplace accident or the diagnosis of an occupational disease. While each state sets its own workers’ compensation laws, the coverage is rather standard. Workers’ compensation offers medical benefits, which covers the cost of your medical care for treating your injury, and it covers a portion of your lost wages, which is usually about two-thirds of your regular pay up to the maximum payout allowed by state laws. Workers’ Compensation Covering Medical Care Workers’ compensation will cover the cost of your medical care for your injury. Some states allow injured workers to choose their own medical provider, but in most states, employers or their workers’ compensation insurance provider can choose your medical caregivers. Your employer should have a list of approved workers’ compensation medical providers posted at your place of employment. If you do not see this list, you will need to ask a supervisor for a copy of it. Failing to choose a provider from the approved list could result in the loss of medical benefits and leave you paying for the bills yourself. If you see a provider from the approved list, and they prescribe or order physical therapy for your injury, then it will be covered by the medical benefits available through workers’ compensation. You might be required to go to a specific physical therapy provider who is in-network for workers’ compensation claims. Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim Failure to follow proper procedure after suffering a workplace injury could result in the loss of workers’ compensation benefits. You should notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible. As previously mentioned, you should see an approved medical provider unless it is an emergency. In a true emergency situation, such as where there is a loss of blood or your life could be in danger, you should go to the nearest hospital emergency room. You should notify your employer of the accident as soon as possible because an accident report must be completed. Your employer will complete an accident report. You will have to give a statement that details the accident and specifically explains how you were injured as well. Any witnesses to the accident must provide detailed statement as well for inclusion in the report. You will need a copy of the report to file a workers’ compensation claim. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you have been injured during a workplace accident, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. Your attorney will aggressively pursue your claim and help you access the benefits that you are entitled to receive and will ensure workers’ compensation pays for physical therapy if it is necessary. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to have your details shared with an attorney in your area who can review the details of your case. Additional Resources Can My Workers’ Comp Settlement Pay My Medical Bills? What Does Workers' Compensation Cover?
