Answering Your Frequently Asked Iowa Workers’ Compensation Questions

Workers’ compensation is a vital system designed to provide financial support and medical benefits to employees who sustain work-related injuries or illnesses. If you’ve been hurt on the job, understanding your rights and the process for filing a claim can be overwhelming. At Wertz Law Firm, P.C., our dedicated workers’ compensation lawyers have over 60 years of combined experience in helping the injured workers of Cedar Rapids get back on their feet.

This FAQ page aims to provide clear and concise information to help guide you through the workers’ compensation process, from reporting an injury to receiving benefits and returning to work. As your trusted attorneys, we want to help you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation and ensure you receive the support you need to recover and get back to work. For further questions, contact our firm by email or by calling us at 319-774-2687.

How long do I have to report my injury?

Iowa law says employees have 90 days to report their injury or approximately three months for common injuries. There may be some cases where you get more than 90 days. However, this can depend on the circumstances. For example, you may have more time to file an injury claim if your injury symptoms gradually develop over time.

Does my injury have to be sudden to receive workers’ compensation?

Workplace injuries do not have to be sudden or catastrophic for you to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Workplace injuries can be sudden or random through a slip-and-fall accident, equipment malfunction or other situations. Cumulative injuries or repetitive stress injuries are typically injuries that build up over time. They can include, but are not limited to:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tennis elbow
• Trigger thumb
• Tendinitis
• Shin splints
• Back injury
• Shoulder injury
• Knee injury

We can help you make a strong case for your workers’ compensation claim. Call 319-774-2687 to speak with one of our attorneys today.

Can an insurer deny my claim because of a preexisting condition?

A preexisting condition does not immediately exclude you from obtaining workers’ compensation for your injury. If the duties and motions you perform at work aggravate your preexisting condition, you likely have a valid workers’ compensation claim.

Can I have my own doctor evaluate my injury?

While you can go to your doctor, you often have to pay for those visits yourself. In Iowa, if you want your workers’ compensation-related doctor’s visits covered, you have to see a provider chosen by your employer or their insurer. However, if the advice and treatment they offer aren’t helping you recover, you may be able to request a different one.

How much is the average workers’ compensation check in Iowa?

Workers’ compensation pay in the Hawkeye State is around 66% of a worker’s earnings. Learn more about how those earnings are calculated and determined by watching this video from our attorney Mindi Vervaecke.

How long do workers’ compensation benefits last in Iowa?

The duration of workers’ compensation benefits in Iowa varies depending on the nature and severity of the injury. For work comp Iowa claims, benefits typically last until the employee reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI) or returns to work. In cases of permanent disability, benefits may continue for an extended period or even for life. It’s important to note that there are different types of benefits, including:

• Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Lasts until the worker can return to work or reaches MMI
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Duration depends on the body part affected and the extent of impairment
• Permanent Total Disability (PTD): May last for the worker’s lifetime

For specific information about your case, such as what to do if you have multiple injuries, consult with a skilled Iowa workers’ compensation attorney.

What are the most dangerous industries in Iowa?

When it comes to workplace injury questions, it’s crucial to understand the industries with higher risks. In Iowa, some of the most dangerous industries include:

1. Construction: Common construction injuries involve falls, struck-by incidents and equipment-related accidents.
2. Agriculture: Farming accidents often involve heavy machinery and livestock.
3. Manufacturing: Manufacturing injuries can include repetitive stress injuries, machinery accidents and exposure to harmful substances.
4. Meat packing: Meat packing injuries are prevalent due to the use of sharp tools and repetitive motions.
5. Transportation: Truck drivers and other transportation workers face risks of vehicle accidents and loading/unloading injuries.
6. Healthcare: Nurses and other healthcare workers are at risk for back injuries, needlestick injuries and exposure to infectious diseases.

Understanding the potential risks associated with these industries is crucial for all Iowa employees. Many of these industries also face similar injuries such as tinnitus/loss of hearing due to prolonged exposure to loud machinery noise, or serious injuries to the limbs from using those machines. Filing a workers’ compensation claim can help you seek the help you need after a injury.

Can I get compensation for an injury sustained on the way to or from work?

Generally, injuries sustained while commuting to or from work are not covered under workers’ compensation in Iowa. This is known as the “going and coming” rule. However, there are exceptions to this rule, which may allow for compensation:

1. If you were performing a work-related task during your commute
2. If you were traveling between work sites
3. If you were on a business trip
4. If your employer provides transportation as part of your job

For helpful information on workers’ compensation regarding commute-related injuries, consult with a workers’ comp attorney to determine if your specific situation qualifies for benefits.

Does my injury need to be physical in order to claim workers’ comp benefits?

No, your injury does not need to be purely physical to claim workers’ comp benefits in Iowa. Mental health conditions and emotional injuries can also be covered if they are work-related. Some examples of nonphysical injuries that may be eligible for workers’ compensation include:

1. Depression/mental health issues resulting from workplace stress or trauma
2. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from a workplace incident
3. Anxiety disorders related to work conditions
4. Emotional distress caused by workplace harassment or discrimination

Additionally, some physical injuries may have associated mental health components, such as depression following a severe injury or chronic pain condition. When filing a workers’ compensation claim for mental health issues, it’s essential to provide strong medical evidence linking the condition to your work environment.

Get The Care And Compensation You Deserve – Call Today.

We understand that your situation is unique and that not all of these FAQs address all your needs and concerns. For office injury questions and answers or other inquiries regarding important workers comp questions in Iowa, our experienced and knowledgeable attorneys are here to help. We know that helpful workers’ compensation information can make a difference after an injury.

Call our office at Wertz Law Firm, P.C., or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation. We can address any additional inquiries regarding your circumstances.