Workers' Compensation Benefits FAQ

Questions:

• What is workers' compensation?
• Does workers' compensation cover just my medical bills?
• 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?
• Are all employees covered by workers' compensation?
• Can I be treated by my own doctor and, if not, can I trust a doctor provided by my employer?
• Can I ever sue my employer in court over a work-related injury?

Answer:

Does workers' compensation cover just my medical bills?

Workers' comp does pay hospital and medical expenses that are necessary to diagnose and treat your injury. But it also provides disability payments while you are unable to work (typically, about two-thirds of your regular salary), and may pay for rehabilitation, retraining, and other benefits as well. For more information, see Nolo's article Types of Workers' Compensation Benefits.