Given the dangers involved in construction work, the injury of a worker on the job can create significant problems for an individual and his family. For construction workers in Chesapeake, Virginia, knowing the ins and outs of workers’ compensation is imperative for protecting their interests and their ability to work. This post will let you know all things related to Chesapeake workers’ comp lawyer, laws, benefits, and what if you got injured at work.
What Are Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Chesapeake Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to workers who are injured or get sick while doing their job. Virginia requires that an employer who has more than three employees have workers’ compensation coverage. That system is structured to guarantee that when workers are hurt on the job, they get medical treatment and lose pay benefits quickly regardless of whose fault the accident was.
Coverage for Chesapeake Construction Employees
Some of the Chesapeake workplace injuries for which construction workers are at most risk include:
- Falls from heights
- Electrocutions
- Equipment-related injuries
- Strains and sprains
- Toxic Substance Exposure
What Workers Compensation Covers
- Medical Expenses: This is for hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy or medication.
- Lost Wages: Money you have lost out on due to your inability to work because of an injury.
- Disability Benefits: Payments for long-term disabilities that preclude any return to work.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Services to assist the injured claimant in returning to work, including job training and placement assistance.
Reporting an Injury
When a Chesapeake construction worker gets injured on the job, there are certain steps to be taken.
- Make an Injury Report: Notify your work to report the injury. To be entitled to Virginia workers’ comp benefits, you must report your injury within 30 days of it happening.
- Keep a record of your injury: Date, time, and any possible witnesses If you can, take pictures of the spot.
- File a claim: Notify your employer’s insurance company of the accident and submit should an injury arise, or it becomes known in the future. This usually requires you to complete a claim form and submit supporting documentation.
Deadlines and Time Limits
Virginia law provides that a claim for benefits must be filed with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission within two years of the date of injury or, if the worker becomes aware later of an injury from exposure conditions after the last injurious exposure has ended. Some programs have time limits and failing to do so can cause an individual to lose their eligibility for benefits.
Disputes and Appeals
Periodically, claims can be declined or benefits challenged. But still, if they do so, workers can then appeal against that decision. The process includes:
1. Hearings: File a written request with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission
2. Collecting evidence: Round up your medical records, any pertinent witness statements, and documents relating to the accident.
3. Hearing: If clarification is necessary, each party will have the opportunity to present its position at a hearing.
Legal Assistance
Since Chesapeake workers comp cases can be complex, it may help construction workers to have a consultation with an attorney who knows their way around the world of worker`s compensation law. A seasoned attorney can advise on filing a claim, aid in walking through the claims process, and advocate for your rights if you face disputes.
This is especially important for construction workers in the Chesapeake area to know and understand workers’ compensation to keep themselves safe and provide when a trip, slip, or fall happens. It can help them protect themselves and their families by knowing what rights they have after an injury. As always, make safety the priority on the job and if you run into any issues related to workers’ compensation claims, consult an attorney.