Workers Compensation: Your Rights and Responsibilities"

Workers compensation provides benefits like medical care and lost wages to employees injured at work. State laws establish workers' comp systems funded by employers.

Employees Protected by Workers Comp
Most employees are covered by workers comp mandated by their state. Exceptions include independent contractors and some farmworkers. Coverage applies on the job.

Workers Rights in a Work Injury
If injured at work, you have the right to:

• Reasonable and prompt medical treatment
• Partial income replacement for missed work
• Return to your job after healing

Appeal denied claims

Reporting Workplace Injuries
Report all work injuries immediately to your employer per company protocol. Promptness helps access benefits and prevents denial of claims.

Cooperating With Medical Care
Follow prescribed medical treatments and physical therapy. Communicate capabilities to return to work. Non-cooperation can risk benefits.

Understanding Benefit Limits
Worker's comp caps temporary disability benefits after a point. There are also limits to settlements for permanent impairment. Know your state's rules.

When to Hire an Attorney
Consider a workers' comp attorney if unfairly denied benefits, to assist with a settlement, or if the employer disputes the extent of the injury.

Limited Right to Sue Employer
Workers' comp is usually the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries. Lawsuits against the employer are restricted but some exceptions exist.

Preventing Further Injuries
Adhere to all workplace safety protocols. Report any unsafe conditions immediately. Do not take risks that could worsen existing injuries.

Understanding workers’ comp processes helps injured employees access entitled benefits smoothly and return to work safely. Know your responsibilities.