If you’ve suffered a job-related injury due to an unexpected accident, ongoing stress, or prolonged illness, you’re entitled to benefits provided through workers’ compensation. While each state has its own laws and regulations, knowing the basics about the workers’ compensation program can help you get the financial help you need during this difficult time.
What is the Definition of Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation programs protect employees from financial hardships associated with occupational diseases and work-related injuries. These programs provide monetary and medical benefits to those who cannot resume their normal job activities due to an incident on the job.
If you’ve been in an accident on the job, and have suffered an injury, here are some key steps for you to follow:
- Obtain first aid or other necessary medical treatment immediately
- If it is an emergency, call an ambulance or head to the nearest emergency room
- Notify your employer that you’ve been injured
- Visit a medical professional that has been authorized by your employer or insurance company
- It is required by law that your employer reports your injury to the insurance company
- You will be contacted by your insurance company within 24 hours
- Your rights, obligations and a copy of your accident report will be provided to you by your insurance company
If you’re not satisfied with the doctor that your employer has approved, you may consider getting a second opinion from a doctor of your choice. If the initial diagnosis was wrong, you may be at risk of being denied certain benefits.
Do I Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
Regardless of whether an employee, employer, coworker, customer, or third party is at fault, an employee with a work-related illness or injury is entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Simply put, if your injury is related to your job, you have a right to coverage.
However, there are a few circumstances where workers’ compensation coverage may be denied. These include:
- Injuries that occurred while an employee was intoxicated or using illegal drugs
- Self-inflicted injuries, such as those caused by instigating a physical altercation
- Injuries suffered while an employee was committing a serious crime
- Injuries that occur while an employee was not working, or on vacation
- Injuries suffered when a company policy was violated due to the employee’s conduct
What Are Some Common Examples of Workers’ Compensation Coverage?
Many employees receive compensation for injuries resulting from:
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Overexertion such as pulled muscles, slipped discs, or back problems
- Heart conditions, lung disease or stress-related digestive problems
- Highway accident injuries
- Machinery injuries
No matter what industry you work in, workers' compensation programs cover a variety of injuries. If you’ve been hurt as a result of doing your work, you’re eligible for benefits through a workers’ compensation claim.
Contact OWCP Doctors in Houston Today
If you have questions about your work-related injury or illness, OWCP Doctors Houston can help. We provide comprehensive care for injured federal employees, offer free claims management services, and help federal employees get the compensation they deserve. Call us for a free consultation.
