Your Right to Workers' Comp Benefits FAQ
Frequently asked questions about workers' compensation.
What is workers' compensation?
» Who pays workers' compensation benefits?
Are all on-the-job injuries covered by workers' compensation?
Does workers' compensation cover only injuries or does it also cover long-term problems and illnesses?
Do I have to be injured at my workplace to be covered by workers' compensation?
What kind of benefits will I receive?
Can I be treated by my own doctor and, if not, can I trust a doctor provided by my employer?
If I am initially treated by an insurance company doctor, do I have a right to see my own doctor at some point?
Can I ever sue my employer in court over a work-related injury?
What if my employer tells me not to file a workers' compensation claim or threatens to fire me if I do?
Who pays workers' compensation benefits?
In most states, employers are required to purchase insurance for their employees from a workers' compensation insurance company (also called an insurance carrier). In some states, however, very small companies (with fewer than three or four employees) are not required to carry workers' compensation insurance. In some states, larger companies that are clearly financially stable are allowed to act as their own workers' compensation insurance companies (also called self-insuring).
When a worker is injured, his or her claim is filed with the insurance company or self-insuring employer, which pays medical and disability benefits according to a state-approved formula.
Back to top
|
