Workers’ Compensation Frequently Asked Questions

Workers’ compensation benefits cover injuries caused in the course of your employment. Anything from a broken bone or laceration to conditions such as hearing loss or respective stress injuries are compensable. If you have a preexisting condition that has grown worse as a result of performing your work duties, you may also be eligible for benefits.

Workers’ compensation covers medical bills and lost wages. Ongoing disability payments depend on the on the injury, whether it presents as a temporary or permanent disability, whether you are able to return to work and in what capacity, and your earnings when injured on the job.

It doesn’t matter who caused the accident, workers’ comp covers injuries that occur when performing the duties of the job. However, in circumstances where illegal or improper activity led up to a workplace accident, an employer may fight the claim. 

If your condition has worsened, you may need to make changes to your benefits to address the changes you’ve experienced. Your case will be investigated again, much like your initial claim. If there is evidence that your benefits will need to be extended, the insurer should offer further benefits and discuss how much workers’ compensation you will receive and for how long.

ome workers elect to receive their benefit as a lump sum, but taking a onetime payment makes them ineligible for more benefits should their condition worsen. Many elect to receive a weekly benefit, keeping the door open to reevaluating their claim. Oftentimes the decision of whether to take a lump sum or weekly benefits boils down to the complexity and seriousness of the injury.