Workers’ compensation cases are crucial for employees injured on the job, offering financial support during their recovery. Understanding the types of compensation available is key to ensuring you receive the full and fair amount that you are entitled to. Below we have listed five common types of compensation that can be recovered in a workers comp claim. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and other types of compensation may be recovered depending on the details of your losses. To discuss your specific case and the compensation that you may be entitled to, contact a workers comp lawyer today.
Medical Expenses
One of the primary forms of compensation in workers’ comp cases is coverage for medical expenses. This includes hospital and doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, and any medical equipment needed for recovery. The aim is to ensure that the injured worker does not bear the financial burden of medical treatment resulting from a workplace injury. It’s important to keep detailed records of all medical treatments and expenses, as this documentation is vital in ensuring that the full cost of your medical expenses are recovered.
Lost Wages
When an injury prevents you from working, workers’ comp can provide compensation for lost wages. This benefit is usually a percentage of your regular earnings, calculated based on state laws and the severity of your disability. There are different classifications for wage replacement benefits, such as temporary total disability, temporary partial disability, or permanent disability, each reflecting the impact of the injury on your ability to work. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the percentage of lost wages that you are eligible to recover.
Rehabilitation Costs
Rehabilitation costs are also covered under workers’ comp for injuries requiring physical therapy or vocational rehabilitation. Physical therapy aims to help you recover and regain your strength and mobility. If the injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, vocational rehabilitation services, like retraining or job placement assistance, are provided to help you adapt to a new employment situation.
Permanent Impairment Benefits
If a workplace injury results in permanent impairment, you may be entitled to additional compensation. These benefits are based on the extent and nature of your impairment. For example, if you lose a limb or suffer a permanent loss of function, a specific formula is used to calculate the compensation. Lawyers such as our friends at Hurwitz, Whitcher & Molloy know that these benefits are crucial for workers whose injuries have long-term effects on their quality of life and ability to work.
Death Benefits
In the tragic event of a fatal workplace injury, workers’ comp provides death benefits to the worker’s dependents. This may include a lump-sum payment to cover funeral expenses and ongoing support payments to dependents, such as a spouse or children. The specific benefits and eligibility criteria vary by state but generally aim to provide financial support to the family of the deceased worker.
Receiving Experienced Legal Assistance
Navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation can be challenging, especially while recovering from an injury. Understanding the types of compensation available can help ensure that you are adequately supported during this time. If you have questions or need assistance with your claim, an experienced lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support, helping you to secure the benefits you deserve.