Workers’ compensation laws were enacted in the United States in 1908 along with the Federal Employers’ Liability Act. Since that time, numerous significant changes and amendments have taken place in these laws. In present, these laws are compulsory for almost all employers in the US (except a few states such as Texas). The purpose of these laws is to ease the financial burden of workers who get injured at the workplace. An injury at the workplace may result in fractures, wounds, pain, and psychological injuries. It may create additional financial issues and strain on you and your family. Most of people prefer hiring workers compensation attorney Woodbridge to overcome these effects and get the compensation that they legally entitled to.
Here are five important things you should know about workers’ comp:
What is Workers’ Compensation Law?
Without stranding in its nuances, you can understand workers’ comp laws: if you get injured while doing your job-related task, you have the right to receive compensation for your financial and physical loss. These laws allow you to get monetary benefits for your injuries that eventually lessen stress on you. You may hire a personal injury attorney Woodbridge for legal assistance here.
Eligibility
You should know that workers’ compensation laws and regulations do not apply in every situation. A worker is only eligible for any reimbursement if he gets injured while performing a job-related chore or during employment. For instance, if the worker hurts himself after falling from stairs or scaffolding and if such injury results in temporary or permanent disability then the employer has to incur liability for his losses.
Laws may vary by state
Workers’ compensation laws may vary in different states. Your state may have different policies regarding statute of limitations and your eligibility for any benefits. You can consult with a personal injury attorney Woodbridge for detailed information on these types of cases.
You can’t sue your employer
Many employees assume that with a workers’ comp lawsuit they can sue their employers but actually this isn’t the case. The existing rules are also defined as remedy rules that empower injured employees to get wage replacement and medical benefits. However, a courtroom trial may occur in severe scenarios such as when you got hurt because of the employer’s reckless or intentional action.
Common workplace accidents
Under OSHA laws, employers have the responsibility to minimize the risk of workplace injuries and develop a safe working atmosphere for employees. They have to comply with certain state and federal standards to ensure the workplace is free from hazards. Most of the employers usually take these standards seriously and conduct proper safety training programs before hiring employees. Unfortunately, there are some common workplace accidents that hurt thousands of workers every year such as being hit by falling objects, exposure to heat, and repetitive strain injuries.
It’s best for employers and companies to consult with workers compensation attorney to ensure they meet the local guidelines.
