Workers’ compensation provides workers benefits if they become sick or injured due to their jobs. Most states, including North Carolina, require businesses to purchase workers’ comp insurance even if they have only one employee. More than $58 billion in benefits were paid in the United States in 2020. Here is a look at what workers’ comp covers.
Workers’ comp covered benefits
Workers’ comp covers medical expenses stemming from a work-related illness or injury. These could be expenses for hospital visits, emergency surgeries and medications. The insurance also covers disability benefits if a worker’s injury has caused a permanent or partial disability.
Other benefits that workers’ comp covers include ongoing health care costs, like physical therapy. Workers’ comp additionally covers death benefits. These include survivor benefits designed to help the deceased worker’s family and funeral expenses. Injured employees or deceased workers’ families receive these benefits regardless of fault, and employees do not have to contribute to their funds.
How a workers’ compensation attorney may help
Facing a work-related injury can be physically, mentally and financially overwhelming, especially if a work-related accident leads to permanent injuries. Fortunately, a workers’ compensation attorney in North Carolina can help an injured worker file a claim for benefits as soon as possible. If the worker’s employer denies the claim, the attorney will also be prepared to help the worker appeal the denial. The attorney’s chief goal will be to help his or her client secure the full benefits to which he or she is entitled.