Do you know what benefits you are entitled to from an occupational accident? You\’re probably aware of many of them. You\’re aware that your medical expenses should be reimbursed. You understand that most of your income should be covered. However, whether or not you have the option to select your doctor to give medical attention is something you may not know. Whether prescription costs are paid for is something you could assume. You may not know how many weeks of wage loss compensation you are eligible for.
This is only the beginning of a highly complex area of law. What are the chances you will be paid everything that is owed to you, if you deal with your workers compensation insurer on your own without the aid of a lawyer?
What Kinds of Injuries Are Covered by Minnesota Workers Compensation Law?
Workers\’ compensation insurance covers workers who suffer work-related injuries or sickness. Work injuries can involve the following forms of conditions:
- Traumatic injuries
- Occupational diseases
- Repetitive-type injuries
- Qualifying mental injuries
Can I receive workers\’ compensation benefits?
Workers\’ compensation benefits are only available if your injury occurred while you were working and can be directly linked to your job. To begin the process, tell a supervisor about your work injury and fill out an incident report or First Report of Injury. After completing that, your claim will be sent to the workers\’ compensation insurer to approve or deny it.
You can get medical, wage loss, and rehabilitation benefits if your claim is approved. You may want a lawyer even on an approved claim. You will need a workers\’ compensation lawyer to assist you if your claim is denied.
You may be approved for your benefits, but it is always best to have an attorney review your case. We frequently see insurers underpay or flat-out refuse to pay the total amount of benefits a claimant is entitled to receive. Let us help you ensure that you\’re getting all the appropriate benefits.
Contact Harvey & Carpenter Attorneys at Law for guidance with Worker’s Compensation in Minnesota
To contact Harvey & Carpenter Attorneys at Law, please call us at 507-779-7529, or you can visit our office at 75 Teton Ln, Mankato, MN 56001.
Understanding Temporary and Permanent Benefits
In Minnesota, workers’ compensation benefits are generally divided into temporary and permanent categories. Temporary total disability benefits provide wage replacement if you are completely unable to work while recovering. These benefits typically cover up to 66 2/3 percent of your average weekly wage, subject to state limits, and continue until your doctor determines you can return to work or you reach maximum medical improvement. If you can return to work but at a reduced capacity, temporary partial disability benefits may apply to compensate for lost earnings.
Permanent partial disability benefits come into play if your injury results in lasting impairment. The state uses a medical rating system to assess the extent of your disability, which then determines the amount and duration of benefits. Minnesota law also allows for vocational rehabilitation services if your injury limits your ability to return to your previous job, helping you train for other work.
Important Deadlines and Reporting Requirements
One crucial aspect of your claim is adhering to Minnesota’s strict deadlines. You must report your injury to your employer within 14 days, and the formal claim should be filed with the workers’ compensation insurer within two years of the injury or diagnosis. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your right to benefits. Additionally, keep detailed records of all medical treatment, missed workdays, and communication with your employer and insurer. Documentation is key to resolving disputes or delays.
Interaction Between Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability
If your work injury leaves you unable to work for an extended period, you may also qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, receiving workers’ compensation can affect your SSDI payments since the Social Security Administration reduces SSDI benefits by the amount you receive in workers’ compensation. It is important to understand how these programs interact and coordinate benefit claims properly to avoid unexpected reductions or denials.
At Harvey & Carpenter, we help injured workers navigate these complex rules to ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve. If you have questions about your claim or need assistance with filing or appealing a denial, contact our Mankato office for a consultation. Protect your rights with experienced legal guidance every step of the way.
