People with work-related injuries should learn about the workers’ compensation system. Rules and regulations depend on what state a person lives in. However, any one who is injured on the job should be covered. The requirements are that the employer has workers’ comp insurance, the injured party is an employee and the injury is job-related. In exchange for workers’ comp benefits, employees give up the right to sue their employer.
The injury has to occur in connection with the job. However, it does not have to be a sudden accident. Injuries that happen over a period of time, like repetitive motion injuries, are covered. Certain conditions can be aggravated in the work place, and these conditions must be covered. For example, an employee with asthma, who works around chemicals, may aggravate that condition. Workers can also be compensated for psychological stress due to a job. Injuries that are caused by an employee’s bad behavior, like fighting, are not covered. In addition, workers who injure themselves while intoxicated will not be compensated. If there is a dispute about whether the employee was intoxicated, visit the Workers Comp Lawyer in Bellingham, WA. The law firm of Robinson and Kole is experienced with helping injured workers and their families.
State law governs how workers’ comp lawyers are paid. Cases are handled on a contingency basis, and the lawyers don’t get paid unless the client does. On average, lawyers receive 20 to 25 percent of any settlement. The workers comp lawyer in Bellingham WA advises clients on what benefits they are entitled to. Insurance must pay for the injured workers’ medical expenses. Medical expenses include office visits, surgery, tests and special services like physical therapy. In addition, insurance pays for prescriptions and mileage for any medical-related trips. Many states require employers to provide medical transportation, for employees who don’t have cars. Workers also receive a portion of their weekly paycheck while they are injured. Some injuries result in permanent impairments, and the worker must be compensated for the permanency. Most states have a payment scale for permanent impairments, which includes the loss of a body part. If you are injured on the job, contact a lawyer to protect your rights.
