Getting Workers Compensation for Your Job and Work Related Injuries

Work related injuries can occur in any job at any time or any place, even in your supposedly safe office. Half of all injuries in the workplace are sprains or bruises, while the other half are fractures, cuts, burns, traumatic injuries, or carpal tunnel syndrome. Most employers are required to provide workers compensation, but there are a few exceptions, such as farm workers and businesses with fewer than five employees.

Work related injuries are covered under workers compensation rules, so in order to collect any compensation, you must sustain the injury while on the job, on the premises. You can’t be on your way to work or leaving work.

Assuming you have true work related injuries, you may proceed by filing a workers compensation claim. You will have all of your medical expenses covered and you’ll receive a portion of your lost wages if you can’t work. If you have a very serious work related injury that will affect you for the rest of your life, such as an amputation, head injury or a broken bone, you will want to consult with an attorney about a proper settlement.

On the workers compensation claim form, you’ll simply fill out the date of the injury and the address of the place where your work related injuries were sustained. You’ll also need to describe the nature of the injury. You’ll give it to your employer and your employer will also complete some insurance information. By filing a workers compensation claim form as soon as possible after your work related injuries occur, you’ll ensure that you receive proper pay compensation and medical reimbursement.

You’ll return to work in consultation with your treating doctor. Keep in mind that it is illegal for your employer to punish or fire you for having work related injuries or for filing a claim. That much said, you may find the atmosphere more than a little tense when you return to work, especially if you’ve received a big pay out. Depending on whether the settlement was on good or bad terms, you may usually find yourself wanting to change jobs soon afterward. Bear this in mind before filing a claim or trying to sue your employer, and make sure you talk to your boss and maintain good communication throughout your claim. If you have dependent children who may be affected by your injury (and subsequent loss of finances), make sure your boss knows this. He or she is human too and may behave a little more kindly toward you if they know you’re not filing this big claim for selfish or frivolous reasons.

By following these tips, you’ll be more balanced to make a decision about whether your job or the compensation will benefit you most financially in the long run.