Workers’ compensation benefits can be a lifeline for those injured or sickened at work. Unfortunately, many employees do not make use of workers’ compensation when they are eligible. Others make mistakes that limit the benefits that they receive. Learning the truth about the five workers’ compensation myths below can help employees feel empowered to pursue benefits after an injury.
What inaccurate information sometimes misleads injured workers?
Myth one: Employers have to opt into workers’ compensation
There are many different types of business insurance that are technically voluntary. Companies don’t have to carry business interruption insurance to comply with the law. However, workers’ compensation is different. Most of the time, employers have an obligation to carry workers’ compensation coverage. Those that do not want to pay for insurance typically have to qualify to self-insure and must follow appropriate steps with the state. Self-insured employers still have obligations to workers who get hurt on the job.
Myth two: Fault influences benefits
Many workers are not eligible for benefits if they are even partially at fault for their injuries. With exceptions for cases where people get hurt because of intoxication on the job or hurt themselves on purpose, fault generally does not influence eligibility.
Myth three: Only total disability leads to financial support
People may believe that only those who cannot work at all are eligible for disability benefits. There are actually four different types of disability benefits that apply in different situations. Temporary partial disability benefits can supplement the wages of those who must perform light-duty work until they recover. Temporary total benefits can help those who cannot work at all until their condition improves. Permanent partial disability benefits can help those who have lasting functional limitations after a work injury. Permanent total disability benefits are available for those who cannot work at all.
Myth four: Health insurance is the same as medical coverage
If an employer provides subsidized health insurance, workers might convince themselves to use that coverage instead of filing a workers’ compensation claim. The medical benefits available through workers’ compensation provide full coverage for necessary care. Workers do not have to cover the deductibles, copays and coinsurance imposed by private health insurance companies.
Myth five: Only on-site injuries qualify
Obviously, workers’ compensation can pay for the cost of treating an injury that occurs because of a job incident. Workers can also qualify for incidents that occur while they are on the clock but elsewhere, such as car crashes that occur while they work. They may also be eligible for coverage if they have occupational illnesses or repetitive stress injuries. Even pre-existing conditions that get worse because of employment may qualify for benefits.
Discussing workers’ compensation rules and personal medical concerns with a skilled legal team can help people determine if they can file a claim. Professionals who have the right support may find it easier to obtain workers’ compensation benefits when they need them.