Suffering an injury or getting sick through the course of your employment can be very upsetting. Not only can you feel bad because of your condition, but you may also have to deal with the stress of taking time off work and going to the doctor. Further, in addition to the time and energy you may be spending on your situation, you may also be facing some unexpected financial responsibilities as well.
However, you should understand that if you are currently dealing with this predicament, you can seek different types of financial relief including workers’ compensation. Just how much can be available will vary considerably based on individual circumstances, but in this post we will take a look at the guidelines for how much can be available through workers’ compensation.
One important expense that workers’ compensation can cover, at least partially, is lost wages. According to the North Carolina Industrial Commission, people in this state will receive a maximum of 66 2/3 percent of their weekly wage if they are unable to work. The weekly amount cannot exceed $884.00, however. These payments will continue as long as the injured employee is unable to work.
Medical bills can also be covered by workers’ compensation insurance. However, there are limitations on the bills that must be reimbursed. More specifically, insurance are required to only reimburse fees that are reasonable and in line with standard services. It is also important to note there can be situations in which an insurance company or employer denies or challenges an expense related to your treatment, which can be very frustrating.
Additionally, recipients of workers’ compensation can also be reimbursed for travel expenses that accumulate as a result of medical treatment if you have to travel 20 or more miles to and from treatment facilities. Beginning in 2013, the rate of reimbursement was set at 56.5 cents per mile.
There are many other specifications and rules associated with the amount of money available in workers’ compensation claims and every case is different. If you have been injured on the job or gotten sick as a result of workplace exposure to asbestos, it can be crucial to discuss your options to pursue workers’ compensation as well as other benefits with an attorney.