Workers’ compensation is a system designed to provide financial assistance and support to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. Despite its importance, many misconceptions surrounding workers’ compensation can confuse and potentially harm those entitled.
You must be clear about some of the most common misconceptions about workers’ compensation, including the belief that it is only for those with physical injuries, covers all medical expenses, and that an employee cannot receive compensation if the injury was their fault. You can also hire a lawyer and click here if you want legal assistance for payment.
Debunking common misconceptions about workers’ compensation:
- Workers’ compensation is only for accidents
One common misconception about workers’ compensation is that it only covers accidents that occur in the workplace. However, workers’ compensation can also cover work-related illnesses and diseases, such as repetitive stress injuries or respiratory conditions.
Such a misconception can cause some employees to overlook or dismiss the possibility of filing a workers’ compensation claim for an illness or injury that developed over time due to work-related activities.
- Workers’ compensation is only for on-the-job injuries.
Another common misconception about workers’ compensation is that it only covers injuries that occur while an employee is physically at work. However, workers’ compensation can also cover injuries or illnesses that result from work-related activities, such as traveling for work or attending a work-related event.
This misconception could cause some employees to believe they are not eligible for workers’ compensation if their injury or illness didn’t occur on their employer’s premises.
- You could not file a claim if the injury were your fault.
Another common misconception about workers’ compensation is that an employee cannot file a claim if the injury was their fault. However, workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning an employee can receive benefits regardless of who was at fault for the injury or illness.
This misconception could prevent some employees from seeking workers’ compensation benefits, believing they are not eligible if they are responsible for the injury. It is essential to understand that, in most cases, the fault is not a factor in determining workers’ compensation eligibility.
- You have to go to a doctor selected by your employer.
Workers’ compensation laws allow injured employees to choose their treating physician. While an employer may recommend a doctor, the employee ultimately decides which doctor will treat their work-related injury or illness.
This misconception can cause some employees to feel powerless in their healthcare decisions and prevent them from seeking the medical treatment they need. Understanding their right to choose their doctor can empower employees to take control of their medical care.