In 2022 alone, there were 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported in the United States. Workers' compensation provides wage replacement and medical benefits if you are injured while performing your job duties. Workers' compensation insurance covers medical costs and replaces part of your income if you can't work due to a job-related illness or injury.

Who is Eligible for Workers' Compensation?

According to Ryan Zavodnick, an experienced Philadelphia workers' compensation lawyer, most employees are eligible for workers' compensation benefits if injured. Workers' compensation laws cover private, state, and local government employees. Federal workers are covered under a separate program. Independent contractors and gig workers are generally not covered.

What is Covered Under Workers' Compensation?

If your injury or illness is considered work-related, workers' compensation will cover:

  • Medical expenses like doctor visits, hospital services, physical therapy, and prescriptions
  • Partial income replacement if you miss work due to an injury or illness
  • Vocational rehabilitation services if you cannot return to your prior occupation
  • Other expenses like prosthetics or modifications needed because of the injury

Reporting a Workplace Injury

You should report any work-related injury or illness to your employer right away. In Pennsylvania, the Bureau of Workers' Compensation reported approximately 123,000 workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022. Even minor injuries should be reported in case medical treatment is later needed.

The process may vary by state and employer, but you'll likely need to complete an incident report detailing when, where, and how the injury occurred. Reporting promptly helps ensure you receive any benefits owed promptly.

Workers' Compensation Benefits

Workers' comp provides medical and income benefits if your claim is accepted. Medical coverage pays for treatment related to workplace illness or injury. Income replacement benefits help compensate for wages lost if you cannot work. The compensation rate varies, but it is usually two-thirds of your average weekly salary and up to a maximum cap.

Return to Work and Vocational Rehabilitation

The goal is for you to heal, recover, and return to your job. While recovering, your employer may offer light-duty options. If you cannot return to your prior position, vocational rehabilitation can help you train for a new occupation suited to any physical restrictions.

Workers' Compensation Claim Disputes and Appeals

Hopefully, your workers' compensation claim goes smoothly. However, issues over approved conditions, benefit rates, return to work status, and more could arise. You can appeal or request a hearing if you disagree with a claim decision. An experienced workers' compensation lawyer can help navigate any disputes.

Workers' Compensation Overall Impact on the Workforce

Workers' compensation costs U.S. employers over $100 billion per year. Around 5,000 workplace injuries and illnesses occurred in the Philadelphia metropolitan area in 2022. For that region, compensation costs for private industry increased by 5.2% for the year ended September 2023. The average workers' comp claim in Pennsylvania is $30,000. While the system isn't perfect, workers' comp provides a safety net for injured employees.

Workers' Compensation Key Takeaways

Workers' compensation provides medical treatment and wage replacement if you are injured at work. Make sure to report any workplace accidents and exposures promptly. Keep records of doctor visits, care instructions, and time missed for the claim process. If issues arise, contact a workers' compensation attorney to seek legal guidance regarding your rights and benefits under the workers' compensation system.