What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a system created by a statute that requires employers to provide certain benefits for workers who are injured during the course of their employment. Each state has its own workers’ compensation laws. Federal employees, railroad workers, and maritime, longshoremen, and harbor workers are covered by federal workers’ compensation laws which are not discussed in this pamphlet.
Usually, an employer buys workers’ compensation coverage from an insurance company. Some employers may choose to be “self-insured” when allowed by the State. Self-insured employers generally hire an insurance company or a similar company to administer claims. With few exceptions, any employer who hires one or more employees must make workers’ compensation available. An employer who fails to provide workers’ compensation coverage for employees may be subject to fines and criminal penalties.
Workers’ Compensation Sub Topics
Who is Covered By Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation coverage is available once you begin your employment. Almost all employees are covered by workers’ compensation laws. Some categories of workers, such as independent contractors, are not considered… Read More
What Is Covered By Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation covers physical injuries which arise out of, and in the course of, your employment, and in some circumstances, mental health and stress disorders. For example, you are entitled… Read More
What Are My Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
A primary workers’ compensation benefit is payment for all reasonable medical services required by the work injury. This might include payment for hospital and surgical services, doctor visits, physical therapy,… Read More
What Are Some of My Rights and Obligations Under the Workers’ Compensation Law?
You have a right to retain legal counsel. Attorneys’ fees are generally limited by local law and set to a small percentage of any benefits which you recover through the aid… Read More
What Does Workers’ Compensation Not Provide?
Your State’s workers’ compensation law may not provide any recovery specifically for your pain and suffering, humiliation, embarrassment, loss of opportunities in your life, or the impact of your injury on your… Read More