In a split second, a promising and lucrative career can end in an instant due to an onsite catastrophe that sidelines a hard-working professional.
Work-related accidents can take many forms, not to mention levels of severity. From minor injuries to catastrophic damage to the body, many accidents may require surgery that will keep the injured on the proverbial shelf. Being unable to work for a significant amount of time creates fear and uncertainty.
What is covered?
The minimum expectation for employees and employers is that workers’ compensation will cover expenses involved with medical care following a job-related accident. Determining the costs is based on the severity and extent of the physical injuries.
Workers’ compensation benefits exist to cover the following:
- Medical expenses now and in the future
- Previous and future wage loss, particularly if the injury results in earning less money or not being able to work at all
- Specific losses that result from severe and permanent injuries
When surgery is necessary
A vast majority of medical costs come from expenses incurred for surgical procedures following the injury or illness that occurred during the course of your job duties.
Specific medical procedures include:
- Carpal tunnel
- Severe burns
- Bone fractures
- Joint damage
- Spinal injuries requiring fusion
Regardless of the necessary procedure, workers’ compensation settlements depend on the injury’s severity. When it involves the wide range of potential costs for surgeries now and in the future, settling should wait to ensure payouts that property compensate injured workers.
