When it comes to understanding the benefits you may be entitled to, workplace injuries can be overwhelming and challenging to deal with. Whether it’s a minor injury or something more severe, knowing what support is available can make a significant difference. A work injury attorney can help you face this complex process and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. In this blog, we’ll outline the various benefits you may be entitled to after a workplace injury, providing clarity on what you can expect during your recovery.
Medical Benefits
When you suffer a workplace injury, one of the primary benefits you are entitled to is coverage for medical expenses. This includes immediate medical treatment, hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and any necessary rehabilitation. It’s essential to keep thorough records of all medical treatments and expenses to support your claim. These benefits are designed to cover the cost of returning you to the best possible health and ensuring you can get back to work as soon as possible.
Temporary Disability Benefits
If your injury prevents you from working for a temporary period, you may be entitled to temporary disability benefits. These benefits typically cover a portion of your lost wages while you are recovering. The exact amount and duration of these benefits can vary depending on the severity of your injury and the laws in your state. Generally, you will receive a percentage of your average weekly wage until you can return to work or until you reach maximum medical improvement.
Permanent Disability Benefits
You may be eligible for permanent disability benefits, in situations where a workplace injury results in a permanent disability. These benefits compensate for the long-term impact on your ability to work and earn a living. Permanent disability benefits can be partial or total, depending on the extent of your disability. Partial disability benefits are for injuries that limit your ability to perform certain tasks, while total disability benefits apply to injuries that completely prevent you from working.
Vocational Rehabilitation
For those who cannot return to their previous job due to their injury, vocational rehabilitation benefits may be available. These benefits provide assistance with retraining, education, and job placement services to help you transition to a new line of work. Vocational rehabilitation aims to equip you with the skills needed to find suitable employment that accommodates your physical limitations resulting from the injury.
Death Benefits
In the unfortunate event that a workplace injury results in death, certain benefits may be available to the surviving dependents. Death benefits typically include compensation for funeral expenses and financial support for the deceased worker’s dependents. These benefits are designed to help the family cope with the financial impact of losing their loved one and provide some measure of stability during a difficult time.
Mileage Reimbursement
An often-overlooked benefit is mileage reimbursement for travel expenses related to medical treatment. If you need to travel to and from medical appointments, you may be entitled to reimbursement for mileage, parking fees, and other travel-related costs. Keeping detailed records of your travel expenses can help you claim this benefit and reduce the financial burden of attending necessary medical appointments.
Seeking Support And Understanding Your Rights
The recovery process can be significantly eased and ensure you receive the support that you need when you understand the benefits you may be entitled to after a workplace injury. From medical expenses and disability benefits to vocational rehabilitation and death benefits, knowing what to expect can help you manage this challenging time more effectively. Attorneys like those at Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. can attest to the importance of being informed about your rights and the benefits available to you. If you have suffered a workplace injury, consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can provide valuable guidance and support throughout your recovery journey.