worker’s Compensation Benefits in Indiana
There are a number of misconceptions regarding worker’s compensation benefits. For example, many people mistakenly think that a worker receives compensation only if it was their employer’s fault, even though worker’s compensation is a “no-fault” program, meaning that workers are typically eligible for benefits for injuries that weren’t caused by a hazardous work environment.
At Coriden & Coriden, LLC, we get many questions about the benefits that workers receive following an accident on the job. Determining benefits is highly dependent on the particular circumstances of a given case. However, there are a few general points that can be made about worker’s compensation which you might find helpful in understanding how benefits are determined and how much workers receive.
Who Is Eligible for Benefits?
Workers are eligible for worker’s compensation from the first day on the job. If the injury was suffered while working, even off-site, the worker is typically eligible for worker’s compensation. Those who suffer from long-term injuries and illnesses are also eligible for compensation. This includes workers who have sustained repetitive stress injuries, such as lower back injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Determining Worker’s Compensation Benefits
There are many factors that will determine the amount paid to an injured worker. This includes the diagnosis by a doctor, the severity of the injury and the length of time the worker is unable to perform their job. Employers generally cover medical bills and treatment for the injuries, including rehabilitation. Workers receive two-thirds of their wages for time lost at work, up until maximum medical improvement benefits are considered. Workers can calculate their wage loss benefits by estimating their weekly wage.
Payments are also based on the level of disability suffered by the worker. The different types of payments workers receive in regard to the level and length of their disability is known as “wage loss benefits.” Temporary benefits are provided if a worker is expected to return to work in full capacity. When a worker suffers injuries that affect them on a permanent basis, there are two different types of benefits they might receive:
Permanent & Total Disability Benefits – Permanent Total Disability means that your injury completely prevents you from working in the field in which you have experience, training or education.
Permanent Partial Disability Benefits – Permanent Partial Disability means that you are permanently limited in your ability to perform some of the tasks required of your job.
It should be noted that there are some circumstances in which workers will not receive benefits for their injuries. For example, if a worker was intoxicated or committing a crime while they were injured, they are usually ineligible for worker’s compensation benefits. Additionally, if a worker was injured in an accident completely unrelated to work, they will not be eligible.
If you have questions about worker’s compensation benefits and what it means for you, contact the attorneys at Coriden & Coriden, LLC. Our attorneys have years of experience in all aspects of worker’s compensation, from determining payments to settling disputes. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
Attorney Terry Coriden
Terry Coriden practices worker’s compensation law as a Partner at Coriden & Coriden, LLC. His entire professional career as an attorney has been committed to worker’s compensation law and making a difference in his community. He is also highly experienced in mediation. Terry is a member and past president of the Bartholomew County Bar Association, a member of the Indiana State Bar Association, and a former board member of the Indiana Continuing Legal Education Forum (ICLEF). [ Attorney Bio ]