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The basics of workers’ compensation in Missouri

On Behalf of | Dec 19, 2024 | Workers' Compensation

Every employment arrangement comes with a degree of risk. Whether or not a professional serves customers, provides support in a medical environment or works in an office, they can potentially get hurt on the job.

Professionals may also acquire medical conditions caused by their employment, such as repetitive strain injuries or occupational diseases. A worker dealing with medical consequences triggered by their employment may fear for the future. They may be at risk of losing their main source of income and could face major medical expenses. In such scenarios, an injured employee may be able to pursue a workers’ compensation claim.

What is workers’ compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance carried by businesses that employ people. Companies typically need to carry coverage for each of their employees, including brand-new workers and part-time staffers.

Workers’ compensation provides no-fault coverage that applies to any injury or diagnosed medical condition related to a worker’s employment. Workers’ compensation can even provide death benefits to surviving family members if someone passes away because of their employment.

The law mandates insurance coverage and also extends certain protections to workers. Employees have the right to hire an attorney to assist them during a claim. They have the right to appeal unfavorable determinations. They can also receive benefits that can reduce the economic harm of a job-related medical condition.

What benefits are available?

There are two main types of benefits provided by workers’ compensation. Workers who require medical treatment are eligible for healthcare coverage. Typically, workers’ compensation can pay for all of their medical expenses. The treatment must be necessary and approved by the physician overseeing the case.

If the worker requires time away from their job to recover or if they cannot perform the same job functions, they may be eligible for disability benefits. Temporary total disability is available during a short-term leave of absence following an injury or diagnosis. Workers who can never return to their jobs may be eligible for permanent total disability benefits. There are also permanent partial disability benefits available to those who must return to light-duty work or jobs that offer lower pay.

Employees already dealing with injuries and financial stress may need help during a workers’ compensation claim. Having legal support may make it easier for workers to handle paperwork and get the coverage they deserve based on the medical conditions they develop.