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?
Are all on-the-job injuries covered by workers' compensation?
Workers' compensation covers most, but not all, on-the-job injuries. The workers' compensation system is designed to provide benefits to injured workers, even if an injury is caused by the employer's or employee's carelessness. But there are some limits. Generally, injuries that happen because an employee is intoxicated or using illegal drugs are not covered by workers' compensation. Coverage may also be denied in situations involving:
- self-inflicted injuries (including those caused by a person who starts a fight)
- injuries suffered while a worker was committing a serious crime
- injuries suffered while an employee was not on the job, and
- injuries suffered when an employee's conduct violated company policy.
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