If you own a business with one or more employees in all the states besides Texas, you are legally required to carry workers’ compensation. Workers’ Compensation insurance provides financial compensation and legal coverage to injured employees while shielding employers against possible litigation costs.
Both parties stand to benefit. It’s clear: both employers and employees win in this situation. That said, there are regulations regarding what is covered under workers’ compensation. The primary criterion is that the injury must have occurred within the scope of the employee’s work duties.
So, what type of injuries can an employee get compensated for?
1. Slips, Trips, and Falls Injuries
Slips and falls, also known as trips and falls, are among the most common accidents online workers comp covers. These injuries occur when a worker loses their balance and, consequently, falls to the ground. This could be due to an uneven floor, poor floor covering, slippery/ wet walkways, poorly lit areas, or cables lying on the ground, among other causes. Fall injuries may cause pain, swelling, bruising, sprained knees or ankles, and even broken bones.
2. Muscle Strains and Sprains
Muscle sprains, strains, and tears are also covered in workers’ compensation. While these injuries may result from a slip and fall, other things too can cause them. The most common one is strenuous work tasks done repetitively throughout the day, several days or months.
That said, using a lot of force to perform a task or doing it with incorrect body posture may also lead to a strain, sprain, or tear.
3. Cuts, Lacerations, and Punctures
About a third of all workplace injuries are usually cuts and lacerations. And most of these injuries happen on the hands. While not typically life-threatening, these injuries may require medical treatment and time off work for recovery, hence compensation.
4. Bone Fractures
Falls, falling objects, faulty machinery, getting crushed or stuck between heavy equipment, and even explosions can cause bone fractures. Bone fractures are usually severe, often requiring surgery and rehabilitation.
5. Repetitive Stress Injuries
Sometimes, an injury is not immediate. Instead, it happens over time from performing a particular task repetitively. These injuries usually affect the shoulders, arms, wrists, elbows, and back, among other body parts. Examples of these repetitive strain injuries include Tennis elbow, trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, back sprains, etc.
Types of Injuries That Workers Comp Doesn’t Typically Cover
Just because an injury occurred at work doesn’t always mean that it qualifies for workers’ compensation. Generally, workers comp in most states doesn’t cover the following:
- Self-inflicted injuries
- Injuries resulting from fights or playing around
- Injuries occurred while violating company regulations, for instance, while intoxicated or committing an offense.
- Stress and other mental health issues.
Report Occupational Injuries to Your Online Workers Comp Provider as Soon as Possible
When getting worker compensation after a workplace injury, time is of the essence. As the employer, you should file a report with your insurance carrier when the employee brings the injury to your attention. If you wait too long, your worker may receive no compensation for their injuries. So, ensure you have updated coverage and file your claim on time.
