Workers’ compensation basics

On Behalf of | Sep 26, 2019 | Workers' Compensation |

When leaving one’s house in the morning to go to work, no one expects to become injured in a workplace accident. However, this is a stark reality many Missouri workers contend with on a daily basis, regardless of what type of work they are performing. While construction sites post their own hazards, even retail or bartending jobs are not free from creating injuries related to repetitive actions. When a worker is injured while performing tasks within the scope of their work, they may be eligible to receive workers’ compensation.

Workers’ compensation insurance is paid by the employer to cover injuries or illnesses sustained by an employee during the course of their work. One of the most important things to know about this system is that it is not based on fault. This means even if the worker was at fault, it would not preclude them from recovering compensation. But, once someone accepts workers compensation benefits, they must understand that they are giving up their right to sue their employer in the future.

Workers’ compensation benefits can vary from situation to situation, but generally, covers wages lost due to the injury and medical expenses. Therefore, notifying one’s employer of one’s injury and consulting an eligible and qualified medical professional is essential and should be done as soon as possible.

Injured workers should not assume that their injuries are covered by workers’ compensation or that their employment status qualifies them. Additionally, they should also make sure their medical care will be covered.

FindLaw Network
Photo of Attorney Andrew Tarry

Andrew Tarry