What is workers compensation?
Workers compensation is an insurance program which covers injuries and diseases that are work-related. Fault or negligence by the employer or the employee is not considered in the injured employee’s claim for benefits. The primary objective of the program is to return the injured employee to gainful employment as quickly as possible.
Workers’ Compensation is a system that provides certain benefits to workers who sustained a compensable injury by accident arising out and in the course and scope of their employment. Benefits can also be paid for “occupational diseases” such as asbestosis, chemical exposure, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and hearing loss. You may be entitled to benefits for lost wages, permanent disability, medical compensation and vocational rehabilitation. Lost Wages: An injured employee is entitled to 66 2/3% (.6667) of their average weekly wage after the first seven (7) days of disability. The average weekly wage is usually calculated by looking at the gross (pre-tax) wages earned in the 52 weeks preceding the injury. Once calculated, the average weekly wage is multiplied by .6667, which yields the weekly compensation rate. An injured employee will receive weekly checks at this rate until their period of disability is over. Permanent Disability: Sometimes an injured body part does not heal 100
Workers’ compensation consists of a number of different kinds of benefits provided by state law to most workers who have suffered job-related injuries or illnesses under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. The Act is administered by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission, which is a state agency. The Act was enacted by the Illinois General Assembly in 1911 to provide financial protection and security to almost any worker who sustains an injury or illness while on the job. Almost every employee in the state of Illinois is covered by the Act from the moment their employment begins with their employer, and benefits are paid to an injured worker regardless of who is at fault for the injury.
Workers’ Compensation is a system, created by the Delaware Legislature, which provides benefits to workers who are injured or who contract an occupational disease while working. The benefits include medical care, temporary disability payments and compensation for a resulting permanent impairment. In the event of the death of an injured worker, benefits are payable to the family of the worker. Benefits may be paid voluntarily or it may be necessary to petition the Office of Workers’ Compensation for relief.
