Our Attorneys Answer Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation benefits are meant to help people who are injured at work or who have an occupation-related illness. But it is a complicated system that is not always easy to understand and navigate. Here are some of the questions we hear most frequently from our clients.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is insurance carried by employers that covers medical and other expenses for employees who are injured at work in motor vehicle accidents, falls, machinery accidents and other incidents. It also covers work-related illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), some types of cancer, certain respiratory ailments and more. It is a government-mandated program.
What Expenses Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?
This varies case by case, but workers’ compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages and even death benefits. Our team at Mancini Law can help you determine what benefits you may be entitled to.
What Types Of Injuries Are Covered By Workers’ Compensation?
Connecticut’s workers’ compensation laws cover a variety of work-related injuries and conditions, including injuries caused by accidents or mistakes at the jobsite, repetitive trauma injuries, occupational diseases and/or exposures, post-traumatic stress disorder, aggravations of pre-existing conditions and other work-related injuries.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured At Work?
Most importantly, you need to get prompt medical treatment and report your injury to your employer immediately. Gathering evidence regarding your injury is imperative, so keep track of doctor’s visits, medications and other treatments. Start a file of your medical bills and any other costs you incur due to your injury or illness. Your employer should provide you with the appropriate forms to fill out to start the claims process; before submitting any paperwork, it is a good idea to contact an attorney.
Do I Have To Be A Full-Time Employee To Receive Workers’ Compensation?
No, all employees are covered by workers’ compensation benefits, including full-time, part-time and seasonal workers. Workers’ compensation in Connecticut covers minors and non-citizens as well.
Can My Company Fire Me For Filing A Workers’ Compensation Claim?
No, in Connecticut, you cannot be fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
How Long Do I Have To File A Claim?
There is a specific deadline for doing this, and an attorney can make sure you comply with all the requirements. For this reason, you should contact an attorney right away. In Connecticut, you must file within one year from your injury suffered at work. If you are filing a claim for a work-related disease or illness, you have three years from the onset of your first symptom.
How Much Does Worker’s Compensation Pay?
This depends on your injury or illness, but in general, you can expect to receive medical benefits to cover the cost of treatment, including rehabilitation. If you are unable to work, you may receive compensation for lost wages. If a family member has been killed at work, you may be entitled to death benefits.
How Long Does It Take To Get Workers’ Compensation?
This also varies from case to case. Having an attorney to represent you can expedite the process since they are familiar with the workers’ compensation system requirements and deadlines. Attorneys also have experience dealing with insurance companies that may be reluctant to pay.
How Long Do Workers’ Compensation Benefits Last?
There are various categories for workers compensation, including temporary disability if you can’t work for a finite period of time and permanent disability if your injuries are so severe that you are permanently disabled and unable to work again. The benefits you receive will depend on your unique situation.
How Do I Apply For Workers’ Compensation?
Your employer should provide you with the appropriate paperwork to start your claim. Once you complete that, your employer will file it with their insurance company. The insurance company will then investigate your claim and either accept or deny it. You have the right to appeal the decision if your claim is denied or if you feel you didn’t receive all the benefits you are entitled to. It is wise to work with an attorney from the beginning of the process to avoid any mistakes or delays.
Do I Need A Lawyer For A Workers’ Compensation Claim?
You can file for workers’ compensation without the assistance of an attorney, but the system is complicated for those who are unfamiliar with how it works, and missed deadlines or other mistakes in filing can cause delays or loss of benefits. There are other factors to consider as well. You may be too ill to file a claim on your own, or you may face pushback or intimidation from your employer regarding your claim. And remember that insurance companies are not on your side.
How Will An Attorney Help With My Claim?
The attorneys at Mancini Law have over a decade of experience dealing with the workers’ compensation process. We know the pitfalls and how to avoid them. Thanks to our extensive knowledge of how the workers’ compensation system functions, we can save you time and stress as we advocate for your benefits. We are beside you for every step of the process fighting for fair compensation for your injury or illness. We are not intimidated by your employer, their insurance company or other attorneys.
How Do I Contact The Firm?
You can call us at 860-325-7347 or use this email form to tell us about your injury. Workers’ compensation claims are time sensitive, so don’t put off making this important call. Se habla español.