What is Workers' Compensation?

Federal and state workers' compensation (sometimes called workers comp, workman's comp or workmen's compensation) laws were created to ensure that employees who are injured on-the-job are provided with fixed monetary awards. This eliminates the need for litigation and creates an easier process for the employee. It also helps control the financial risks for employers since many states limit the amount an injured employee can recover from an employer. Specifically, workers' compensation is insurance that the employer is required by law to carry in case an employee is injured on-the-job, becomes ill due to circumstances surrounding their job, becomes temporarily or permanently disabled, or even if death results from their job. All employers who have 4 or more part-time or full-time employees must provide workers' compensation insurance. It is the law in all 50 states.

Although workers' compensation laws vary by state, covered medical care generally includes medical, surgical and hospital services, dental services, crutches, hearing aids, chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, nursing care, and prescribed medications. You may also be eligible for additional monetary compensation if you are temporarily unable to work for more than a certain number of calendar days set by state law, hospitalized as an in-patient, or become permanently disabled due to a job-related injury or illness. The right to receive medical treatment at the employer's expense typically continues as long as treatment is reasonable and necessary to treat the injury.

Should I hire a Workers' Compensation Attorney?

Never assume that an employer or their insurance company cares about your injury or if you receive fair compensation for it. The playing field is NOT level. Employers and their insurance company have many attorneys who know the workers' compensation system available to them and will work against you. Level the playing field by securing the qualified legal counsel of an experienced workers' compensation lawyer today, who will fight for your legal rights and help you get the medical care and compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

• If my employee was injured because he/she didn't follow instructions for performing the job correctly, can I deny workers compensation?
  Generally, if an employee has failed to follow the rules or guidelines established by their employer and injury results, that injury will be covered by workers’ compensation.  For an … more
• What Is The New Hire Law?
  The new hire law requires all employers, regardless of size, to report newly hired and re­hired employees to a state directory within 20 days of their hire date. The purpose of new hire … more
• How Long After An Injury Do I Have To Report It To My Employer?
  You should notify your employer immediately if you have a job related injury. The longer you wait to inform your employer, the higher the risk of your claim being denied. Under no circumstances … more
• How Do I Know If My Employer Is Covered By Workers' Compensation?
  California law requires employers to have workers` compensation insurance. Some out­of­state employers may need workers` compensation coverage if an employee is regularly employed in … more
• What Workers' Compensation Benefits Am I Entitled To?
  In general, you may be entitled to receive all reasonable and necessary medical treatment, benefits for lost wages, benefits for specific injuries resulting in permanent disabilities such as loss … more

Free Legal Forms

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