Oklahoma Workers Comp Lawyers
Workers Comp Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays workers' compensation benefits?
In most states, employers are required to purchase insurance for their employees from a workers' compensation insurance company -- also called an insurance carrier. However, in some states, smaller companies (with fewer than three or four employees) are not required to carry workers' compensation insurance. In some states, larger employers who are clearly solvent are allowed to self-insure, or act as their own insurance companies.
When a worker is injured, his or her claim is filed with the insurance company -- or self-insuring employer -- who pays medical and disability benefits according to a state-approved formula.
Are all on-the-job injuries covered by workers' compensation?
Most are. The workers' compensation system is designed to provide benefits to injured workers, even if an injury is caused by the employer's or employee's carelessness. But there are some limits. Generally, injuries that happen because an employee is intoxicated or using illegal drugs are not covered by workers' compensation. Coverage may also be denied in situations involving:
- self-inflicted injuries (including those caused by a person who starts a fight)
- injuries suffered while a worker was committing a serious crime
- injuries suffered while an employee was not on the job, and
- injuries suffered when an employee's conduct violated company policy.
Does workers' compensation cover only injuries, or does it also cover long-term problems and illnesses?
Your injury need not be caused by an accident -- such as a fall from a ladder -- to be covered by workers' compensation. Many workers, for example, receive compensation for repetitive stress injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome and back problems, that are caused by overuse or misuse over a long period of time. You may also be compensated for some illnesses and diseases that are the gradual result of work conditions -- for example, heart conditions, lung disease and stress-related digestive problems.
Most workers are eligible for workers' compensation coverage, but every state excludes some workers. Exclusions often include:
- business owners
- independent contractors
- casual workers
- domestic employees in private homes
- farm workers
- maritime workers
- railroad employees, and
- unpaid volunteers.
Check the workers' compensation law of your state to see whether these exclusions affect you.
Federal government employees are also excluded from state workers' compensation coverage, but they receive workers' compensation benefits under a separate federal law.
In addition, about one-third of the states do not require workers' compensation coverage of employers having fewer than a designated number of employees -- three to five, depending on the state. So, if you work for one of these employers, you may be excluded from the state program.
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.
