Worker’s Comp Basics

If you have been injured on the job in Missouri, workers’ compensation laws may entitle you to certain benefits. These benefits can include payment of medical bills, compensation while you’re unable to work, vocational rehabilitation, permanent partial disability benefits or total disability benefits. Your Missouri employer’s workers’ compensation insurance is responsible for paying these benefits.

In Missouri, workers’ compensation coverage begins on your first day of employment, regardless of whether you are a part-time or full-time employee. You may still be eligible for Missouri workers’ compensation benefits even if you were an independent contractor or a cash employee.

Injuries typically covered by Missouri workers’ comp include:

Traumatic physical injuries
Repeated trauma injuries
Mental injuries
Occupational disease

Missouri workers’ compensation laws can be complicated. A Missouri workers’ compensation attorney in your area can explain to you the application process and help you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.

Although your benefits may vary depending on which state or federal law applies, workers injured on the job–regardless of whether your employer was at fault–may be entitled to benefits that include:

Medical care
Lost wages
Temporary partial and total disability
Permanent partial and total disability
If you receive Missouri workers’ compensation following an injury, you cannot sue your Missouri employer for additional compensation in connection with your injury.

You may, however, be able to file a lawsuit against others involved in your injury. For example, if you were injured in an automobile accident while working and the other driver was at fault, you might be able to sue the other driver. Or if your injury was the result of a defective machine, you might be able to sue the machine manufacturer. A Missouri workers’ compensation lawyer can advise you of your legal options.

If you’re injured while at work or develop a job-related occupational disease in Missouri, you should promptly seek medical treatment. Make sure to tell the doctor that your injury occurred on the job or in connection with your job.

Notify your employer of the injury or disease as soon as possible. In Missouri, you’ll also have to notify your employer of your work-related injury or disease in writing 30 days.

Your Missouri workers’ compensation claim will be filed with the Missouri Department of Labor Division of Workers’ Compensation.

Once you’ve sought medical treatment for your injury or disease, you should consider contacting a Missouri workers’ comp lawyer to help guide you through the process of applying for Missouri workers’ compensation.If you have been injured and are receiving workman’s compensation, please do not hesitate to contact the Northland Injury Law firm for a free consultation at 816-400-4878. An attorney experienced in the field of worker’s compensation law will be ready to advise you of your options and counsel you through this difficult time.