Similar to workers’ compensation laws in other states, the Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Act provides benefits for employees who have suffered an injury or illness while performing their job duties. The program is designed to relieve the financial hardship of their medical expenses and lost wages. However, the application and approval process can be quite complex. If you’re dealing with such a situation, an attorney will provide invaluable counsel and guidance. In the meantime, here are a few answers to frequently asked questions on the topic.

Common Concerns About Workers’ Comp

What Benefits Can an Injured Employee Receive?

Injured employees are entitled to receive benefits that cover all their medical bills and lost income as long as they’ve missed more than three days of work. You can collect four basic types of compensation: temporary total disability, temporary partial disability, permanent partial disability, and discretionary. Your award depends on the severity of your injury or illness and your ability to work.

What Injuries Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation?

The workers’ compensation program covers any injury or occupational disease that results from an on- or off-site job duty, whether it is a single trauma or performance of repetitive acts. However, damages that take place during one’s commute to or from work or while on a lunch break are typically excluded. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

Under Connecticut law, employees have up to one year from the day of their injury or three years from the date an occupational illness first manifested to file a workers’ compensation claim. They must submit a written notice to the employer and Workers’ Compensation Commission. The employee must also promptly report the injury to their employer, or else risk a reduced award.

What Is a Voluntary Agreement?

A voluntary agreement is a document in which the employer acknowledges the employee is entitled to benefits. The form includes pertinent information, such as a description of the injury, the date it took place, the staff member’s average weekly wage and compensation rate, and the authorized treating physician’s name. Even though the employer is accepting the case as compensable, the Workers’ Compensation Commissioner must also approve the document.

If you have recently been injured on the job and want to apply for workers’ compensation, turn to The Law Offices of Conti & Levy. Their established legal team has helped many Torrington, CT, employees receive the full benefits they’re entitled to. If you are having trouble getting your claim approved, they will provide effective representation, advocating on behalf of your rights. Contact their law practice at (860) 482-4451 to discuss your case, or visit them online to learn more about the legal services they offer.