Understanding how workers compensation functions and what it can do for you is incredibly important if you work in a high-risk environment. Accidents happen, and it’s good to be prepared for how to proceed when they do. Though it’s something you may not want to think about, here are four tips for understanding your workers compensation rights.
1. Check With Your Employer
First and foremost, check to see if your employer has workers compensation. If your workplace presents risks of injury, this may seem like common sense, but workers compensation insurance isn’t compulsory in every state. Several states only mandate it for companies with a certain number of employees, and others don’t at all.
2. Understand Your Policy
Ask your employer for their workers compensation policy to see what it entails. Policies can vary, and you want to understand exactly what you can make a claim for if the time comes. If you have questions about the policy, contact a workers comp lawyer to go over it with you. You can find one by typing in a place near you, like Iowa workers compensation attorney, into an online search.
3. Know What Doesn’t Count
Not everything falls under a workers comp claim. Employees who caused an accident through their own negligence, such as being impaired by drugs or alcohol, cannot file a claim. Employees who engage in unsafe behavior or get intentionally hurt also do not have the right to a claim.
4. Learn How Long You’ll Have Away From Work
The time you’re away from work on disability will depend on the extent of your injuries. There may be a limit on how long you can be away with a temporary disability, but not with a permanent one. Your employer may work with you to transition you into a new position to get you back to work when possible. You will be covered until then.