If you work in the construction industry in Brunswick, you probably know that you have a dangerous job. You may even know other people who have suffered serious on-the-job injuries that have left them unable to work either temporarily or permanently. With the constant risk of falling off a ladder, being hit by a falling object or collapsing trenches, it is important to know your rights as an employee.
One of the rights you might have as an employee is an access to workers’ compensation benefits if you suffer a job site injury. Here is a brief overview of what you can expect if you need to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Statute of limitations
Like with most other types of claims, there is a certain time limit to give notice to your employer and actually file the workers’ compensation claim. Once you sustain an injury at work, you have 30 days to let your employer know. Next, you must file your claim for benefits. You will typically have one year from the date of the injury or the last related treatment to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Benefits
In general, you might be able to receive approximately 66 percent of your average weekly wages during the time that you are unable to work. However, there might be a maximum amount you are eligible to receive depending on the type and severity of your injury.
For most injuries, you might qualify for up to 400 weeks of medical care. For injuries that are catastrophic, you could receive lifetime medical care benefits.
Fault
Typically, most workplace injuries can qualify for workers’ compensation regardless of whether you were at fault for the accident or your employer was. However, certain conditions often do not qualify for benefits.
Psychiatric, psychological, heart and vascular conditions usually are not eligible for benefits unless they are a direct result of a separate occupational disease. For example, complications that arise from mesothelioma might qualify for benefits if you developed this cancer due to your job.
If you have suffered a workplace injury, you might be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation. Furthermore, if you do file a claim and it is denied, you still have options. You can fight for the benefits you deserve by filing an appeal and arguing your case in a legal setting.
