Kentucky workers know that a work accident can leave them with serious injuries and financial expenses that can be a detrimental burden for their family. Even minor work accidents can require a long and expensive recovery, and it is beneficial for individuals to take steps to understand their rights after experiencing an on-the-job injury.
If you were hurt in a work accident, you have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim. This type of claim can allow you to seek the financial benefits you need for a full and fair recovery. It is prudent for you to take steps to understand your rights and to know what you can expect from a claim with your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance.
A basic understanding of the claims process
Workers’ compensation insurance exists for the benefit of allowing a person to have financial support during a recovery period after a work accident. These benefits are available to most types of employees, and your employer should have a basic procedure for reporting the accident and applying for benefits, along with what to do after a work accident. Through your claim, you may be able to request the following types of support:
- Recovery of a portion of your lost wages
- Access to medical care and recovery of your medical care expenses
- Any costs associated with retraining for new or different types of employment
- Appropriate compensation for permanent injuries from your work accident
Understanding the benefits to which you have a rightful claim is an important step in protecting your rights as an injured worker. Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider likely does not have your best interests in mind, and you may need to fight for your right to recovery.
Many injured workers find it beneficial to seek help as they walk through the claims process. This may increase your chance of a successful initial claim.
Getting better and moving forward
As soon as possible after a work accident, you may find it beneficial to seek a complete evaluation of your case in order to understand how you can get benefits and what you need to do to complete your application.
You do not have to navigate the potentially complex and confusing workers’ compensation claims process alone. Your employer cannot prevent you from seeking rightful benefits, and you can take certain steps to ensure you maximize your claim and get the full amount of money you need and deserve.