Workers compensation is the system of compensation for employers that allows injured workers to receive medical treatment, lost wages and/or disability benefits. The workers compensation law also provides guidelines for workers to receive these benefits. The workers compensation laws in the United States are administered by the state. The federal government has no authority to make changes to the state’s workers compensation laws. However, Congress may pass legislation to change the amount of money that can be recovered for an injury. There are also many different types of injuries that a worker may suffer in a work-related accident. The workers compensation laws in each state have specific guidelines to follow when determining which type of injury a worker is eligible to receive.
1) First Injury or Repetitive Injuries: A first injury is an accidental injury that occurs at the workplace. An employee is eligible to receive workers compensation benefits if he or she suffers a work related injury that occurs during the employment relationship. An employee who has suffered a repetitive injury may qualify for additional benefits under the workers compensation law. The definition of a repetitive injury is generally determined by the workers compensation laws in the state.
2) Occupational Disease: An occupational disease is caused by the nature of a particular job or by the nature of the work environment. The symptoms of an occupational disease usually do not occur until long after the person is employed. Some examples of occupational diseases include carpal tunnel syndrome, hearing loss and respiratory problems.
3) On the job Injury: An on the job injury is an injury that occurs while performing work duties. The employer may be liable for a worker’s on the job injuries. For example, the employer may be liable for any on the job injuries that are caused by the employer’s failure to provide a safe working environment.
4) Non-job related Injury: An non-job related injury is an injury that does not occur on the job or while performing work duties. For example, an individual who slips and falls on the job may receive workers compensation benefits.
5) Injury Related to Alcohol Consumption: An injury that is related to alcohol consumption is a type of intoxication. Intoxication is a legal defense to a workers compensation claim. If a worker is intoxicated on the job, the employer may avoid responsibility for the worker’s on the job injuries.