An on-the-job injury can be difficult to deal with as you navigate your physical recovery, as well as the uncertainty of your financial future. Fortunately, the majority of employers are legally obligated to carry workers’ compensation insurance to help ease the burden for injured employees who are facing mounting medical bills and lost wages. However, before filing to collect benefits, it’s best to understand your rights and how these types of claims work. The following answers to a few of the questions employees frequently ask will give you some useful insight.

Common Workers’ Compensation Questions

What should I do after getting hurt on the job? 

Your priority should be getting medical care for your injuries. This will ensure you’re properly diagnosed and treated. It will also provide you with documented proof of your injury for your workers’ compensation claim.

Be sure to give your doctor a detailed description of how you got hurt. Next, notify your employer of the accident in writing. In Missouri, employees are required to report a workplace injury within 30 days from the date it occurred. Additionally, make certain you’re following your doctor’s treatment recommendations and keeping track of all injury-related expenses. 

What kinds of benefits are available?

Workers’ compensation is designed to help employees cover various costs incurred as a result of their accident. Thus, it’s common to receive benefits for medical bills, time missed from work, prescription medications, travel to and from doctor appointments, and vocational rehabilitation. You may also collect payments as compensation for a permanent disability or impairment. 

Are all injuries covered?

Employees have a right to workers’ compensation benefits for any injury that takes place during the scope of employment. This means you should be covered as long as you were performing your job duties or completing a task your employer asked you to do.

Injuries that happen on your commute to work or during a lunch break aren’t generally eligible for compensation. The injury-causing incident can be one specific event or a series of repetitive activities. 

How long do I have to file a claim?

Every state has a time limit on how long employees have to file a workers’ compensation claim. Under Missouri law, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of injury. If you miss this deadline, it’s likely you’ll lose your right to collect benefits. 

The laws surrounding workers’ compensation claims can be complicated, but the legal team at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. are qualified to guide you through the filing process smoothly. They’ve successfully advocated on behalf of countless employees across St. Charles County, MO, and are prepared to give your case the personalized attention it deserves. Backed by 75 years of combined experience, they know what it takes to ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to. Call (636) 561-5599 or visit them online for more information on how they can help you.