Wisconsin workers’ compensation provides two key forms of benefits for those injured due to their employment. Through workers’ compensation, professionals may be eligible for full medical benefits to cover their treatment costs. If they cannot work or must perform lower-paid work because of their injuries, workers’ compensation can provide disability benefits to replace or augment their pay.
Professionals dealing with treatment-related expenses and reductions in their functional capacity may question whether they qualify for workers’ compensation. Learning what types of injuries are eligible for coverage can help workers minimize the financial harm generated by a work-related injury.
When is an injury eligible for coverage?
Wisconsin workers’ compensation can theoretically cover costs related to many different types of injuries. Injuries caused by slip-and-falls, machinery malfunctions, chemical exposure, interpersonal violence and even car crashes while on the clock could be eligible for coverage. Any injury caused by a specific incident while working could be eligible for benefits.
Injuries related to cumulative trauma may also be eligible for benefits. Employees may develop repetitive strain injuries due to performing the same job tasks repeatedly while working in a manufacturing role or a commercial kitchen, for example.
A specific incident on the job is not necessary for an injury to be eligible for workers’ compensation coverage. Instead, what matters is that the worker acquired the medical condition through the course of their employment. Any injury that arises out of and occurs during the course of employment could be eligible.
Workers’ compensation can even cover the costs of pre-existing injuries that worsen due to job responsibilities. A retail store worker who had previously managed their back pain with rest and over-the-counter medication might find that their symptoms worsen substantially after weeks of stocking shelves. Their new symptoms may interfere with both job functions and daily life.
Any type of injury caused by employment could make a worker eligible for workers’ compensation benefits that replace their income and pay for their treatment. Employees can protect their right to benefits by reporting incidents or recent medical diagnoses to their employers. Complying with medical instructions and consulting with an attorney can also both be beneficial for those who may need to file a workers’ compensation claim.