One of the main concerns injured workers have after a workplace accident is whether they will be able to support themselves and get the care they need if they cannot work because of their injuries.
However, most employees are eligible to collect workers’ compensation benefits. But just how much money might a person receive?
Medical care coverage
Workers’ compensation benefits cover the medical care you need as a result of your injury. This can include:
- Surgery
- Rehabilitative services
- Nursing services
- Hospitalization
- Prescription medications
- Medical devices and equipment, such as crutches
- Prosthetics
Workers’ compensation covers these expenses for injuries and illnesses related to a person’s work without any co-pays or deductibles.
Wage replacement
If a worker cannot work because of an injury, the workers’ compensation insurance carrier must cover a portion of a worker’s wages while the person is out of work. Employers or insurers may also reimburse covered workers for any time they had to take off to go to a doctor’s visit at the employer’s request.
Note that these benefits do not entirely replace a person’s income. Depending on whether the injury is permanent or temporary and whether it is a total or partial disability, a person receives a portion of their average weekly wages. Generally, this amount is either two-thirds their average weekly wage while they are completely unable to return to work or when an employer is unable to accommodate light duty while an injured worker is under medical care.
It is important to note that there is a maximum amount a person can collect. In Maryland, each year the State maximum is adjusted based on the State Average Weekly Wage.
Additionally, workers’ compensation can also cover expenses like mileage, vocational rehabilitative services, and death and funeral benefits if the injuries were fatal.
Other compensation sources
These benefits can be crucial in helping injured workers and their families get the care they need after a work accident. However, there are times when additional compensation can be appropriate.
Knowing how much a person can receive through workers’ comp and legal claims after a work-related accident is crucial. Contacting an experienced attorney will enable workers and their families to understand all the financial remedies available to them.
