Workers’ compensation isn’t probably something you deal with on a daily basis. While it is a huge benefit when you need it, you might not know a whole lot about what it is and what is included. The following are some common questions and answers about this coverage.
What Days Are Considered Time Off?
Any work days that you would normally work are considered time off during workers’ compensation. If you are injured just before your lunch break and are out for the next three days, the day you are injured would be included, making your time off for workers’ compensation a total of four days.
Who Needs to Report the Injury?
There are two reports that need to be made after a workplace injury. First, the injured employee needs to report the injury to his or her employer. If a supervisor or other individual considered the “employer” actually witnessed the accident, the employee would not need to make a formal report.
The second report is made by the employer. It is given to both the state workers’ compensation board and the insurance company. There are time limits in place for both reports, so it’s important both employees and employers know what their deadlines are.
Do You Collect Pay for Regular Days Off?
If you are normally paid for days off during certain holidays, you most likely won’t be paid for those days during workers’ compensation. There are some exceptions, though. For example, if your holiday hours are computed based on time worked before the holiday and you have already completed that work time, you might be entitled to workers’ comp for those days off. If you are receiving partial compensation, that might also be a reason you’d receive holiday pay, but it may only be for that partial work you’re doing.
Do Injured Workers Receive Pain and Suffering Compensation?
In most cases, you won’t receive compensation for pain and suffering. Workers’ compensation is designed to reimburse you for work missed, not for emotional issues. There are, however, some ways to work around this. For example, if your injury resulted in sleeplessness and that affects the work you are able to do, it could be considered a compensable claim.
Contacting a Lawyer for More Answers
After being involved in a workplace accident, don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer, like a workers’ compensation lawyer, to have your questions answered. It can be a complicated process, and you deserve to get through it with ease. Call a workers’ compensation lawyer, at Law Offices of Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt, today to get started.
