When an accident in the workplace happens, leaving an employee with a serious illness or injury, workers’ compensation may be the only resource an employee has to cover the expenses. Despite nearly 3% of employees filing for compensation, many more do not pursue the funds they need. Part of what may be keeping employees from rightfully seeking the compensation they deserve is not knowing what workers’ compensation covers.
The damages of your injury or illness
No one should overlook workers’ compensation if they have suffered an injury because of their job. Medical costs can quickly become overwhelming, and an employee may not be able to pay for everything out of their own savings. Thankfully, workers’ compensation can help make ends meet. The compensation from a workplace accident covers all types of costs, including:
- Medical expenses – costs like a hospital stay, testing, treatment, prescriptions, etc.
- Lost income -any income you would have normally earned but lost due to injury and recovery time
- Cost of continuing care – medical treatment does not end at the first visit, and your compensation should cover the future medical expenses as well
- Disability benefits – for when your injury or illness causes you to suffer a disability permanently or temporarily
If the workplace accident resulted in a loss of life, workers’ compensation could also cover the funeral and burial costs. If your job was the reason you or a loved one suffered a serious injury or illness, it should also be responsible for covering the costs of your expenses.
Get the compensation you deserve
After a workplace injury, do not take your health and finances for granted by assuming you will automatically earn the compensation you deserve. Contact a personal injury attorney to get the help you need in maximizing the settlement you earn so that it accurately reflects the current and future costs of your injury.