Workers Compensation

Protecting the employer as well as the employee

It’s always a difficult time when an employee gets hurt on the job, but it’s a hard time for employers, too. Workers compensation insurance exists in every state to protect employers and employees from the ramifications of injury and illness on the job. Though employees are educated when they are hired, often both employers and employees are not aware of their rights and responsibilities.

What is Workers Compensation?

Workers compensation, or “workman’s comp” as it’s also known, is insurance provided by your employer, which ensures – by law – that you get paid a portion of your wages that you would otherwise lose to injury or illness contracted on the job. Also, workers compensation laws ensure that your medical bills will be paid. Your employer is required by law to have the forms needed for you to file a claim.

Workers compensation varies by state. Employers and employees alike need to know their rights and responsibilities when it comes to the law. Before you attempt to take action on a claim by one of your employees (or if you’re suing your employer), make sure you know:

  • Both the employers’ and the employees’ rights and regulations when it comes to workers compensation.
  • Which forms you will need to give to your injured employee – failure to provide these forms can result in negative consequences for your business. If you are the employee, you will need to have these forms filled out properly and provide a clear statement detailing your injury or illness and the events leading up to it.
  • What to do if you suspect fraud from your injured employee or if your employer is threatening to fire you or otherwise curtail your employment while you are sick or injured.

Workers Compensation Lawyers

Employers are often overlooked when it comes to workers compensation. If you feel that you are being unfairly treated or if your employee is suing you for their illness or injury, then you need to obtain a workers compensation lawyer. This person will help you in court – they specialize in workers compensation rules and laws. If you are suing your employer, you will also need to obtain a lawyer who specializes in workers compensation. Going through a lawyer makes it easier for you to file a lawsuit and lets you know your rights and responsibilities.

Make sure that workers compensation doesn’t ruin your working relationship with your employer or employee. Knowing where to obtain information is the first step in knowing your rights.