Construction Accidents- Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation laws help protect victims of on-the-job accidents by requiring employers to provide certain benefits in the event of an injury. It is important for individuals to know their rights with regard to compensation for work-related injuries. The following outlines basic information regarding workers’ compensation that construction workers may need to know.
What Workers’ Compensation Covers
Workers’ compensation benefits are applicable for injuries caused by the liability of one’s employer. With a construction accident injury, there may be third-party liability in addition to legal responsibility of employers. It is important to be able to properly assess liability in these cases. Most states require businesses to carry workers’ compensation insurance for employees. Common benefits most state laws provide for include medical expenses, disability, and rehabilitation. Medical expenses may include doctor visits, medications, and even reimbursement for trips to and from treatment facilities.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
In the event of an injury, an incident must be reported to your employer. It is advisable to do so in writing and retain a copy of the report. Employers are required to provide a workers’ compensation claim form to employees immediately upon receiving notification of their injury. The form should be filled out by the injured party and returned promptly. Afterward, the employer has a duty to alert the insurance company.
Important Considerations
Individuals who are injured on the job and wish to file a workers’ compensation claim must do so without delay to prevent a postponement of benefits. Because workers’ compensation laws vary from state to state, individuals may need to contact the commissioner’s office in their area in case of a dispute. An attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation cases can assist those who have been unjustly denied benefits.
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