From 2010 to 2011, the number of workers compensation claims in Minnesota slightly fell, but there was a small increase in the cost per claim during that same time period, according to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
The frequency of the claims fell to 4/6 claims for every 100 full-time employees in 2011. This was a decrease from 2010’s 4.9 for every 100. In 1997, that number was 8.7 for every 100.
As for the cost, it increased in 2011 to $1/28 for every $100 of payroll. This was up 4 cents for every $100 of payroll in 2010.
One major contributor to this increase is the rise in medical expenses.
In 2011, approximately 22 percent of workers compensation Minnesota claims were disputed compared to 21 percent in 2010. This was up from 15.5 percent in 1997, according to the state Labor Department. The majority of the disputes were regarding medical payments by workers comp.
Workers’ compensation is designed to help individuals who have been hurt on the job. It is this reason that a majority of employers are required to carry workers’ comp insurance. The insurance pays for a percentage of the missing wages, medical expenses, and other costs related to the qualified workplace injury. Work comp in Minnesota also covers vocational rehabilitation costs, which allows an individual to train in another field if they are unable to return to their former field due to the injury.
The amount of time in which a person receives benefits can vary based on the type of injury and its severity. The goal, however, is to provide a person with the support that they need while they recover so they can return to work, whether it is in the same workplace or field or another workplace or field.
If you have been injured at work, we’re here to help you Call us on: 507-779-7529 or email: [email protected] to schedule a FREE consultation.