Employees who are injured or develop an illness from their job are often entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation insurance is a no-fault product that provides several benefits to employees who require medical treatment due to a work-related injury or illness. The insurance also protects employers by limited the employees’ right to sue for damages covered by workers’ compensation. If you have filed a workers’ compensation claim and your employer is disputing your right to receive benefits under the program, a work comp attorney in MN may be able to help you.
In most cases, workers’ compensation claims are paid without a problem. Occasionally, an employer will dispute an employee’s claim, making it difficult for them to receive treatment under the program. The following benefits should be available to employees in Minnesota.
1. Medical care. Workers’ compensation insurance will cover reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to work place injuries or illnesses. Medical expenses include care by a licensed health care provider, prescription drugs, home health care and mileage reimbursement for travel to medical appointments.
2. Lost wages. If you are unable to work due to your illness or injury, workers’ compensation will pay all or a portion of your lost wages while you are temporarily disabled. You may be eligible for long-term benefits if you are permanently disabled. If you die as a result of the occupational illness or injury, your dependents are entitled to compensation under the workers’ compensation program.
3. Vocational rehabilitation. If you cannot perform the duties required of your occupation after your illness or injury, you are entitled to retraining services. The rehabilitation consultant may be able to help your employer modify your job duties so you can come back to work. When returning to your former job is not possible, you can receive assistance in training for and finding a new job.
If your employer disputes your claim and prevents you from taking advantage of the benefits you are entitled to under workers’ compensation insurance, contact a work comp attorney in MN right away so they can get started on your case and help you get the benefits you deserve.
