Workplace injuries can be taxing on both your physical and mental well-being. They also throw your financial stability into question. While workers’ compensation exists to support injured employees, can it cover all your needs?
Living solely on workers’ comp can be challenging
In California, the workers’ compensation system offers several benefits:
- Medical treatment for work-related injuries
- Temporary disability payments
- Permanent disability benefits
- Supplemental job displacement benefits
- Death benefits for dependents of workers who pass away due to job-related injuries
While workers’ comp provides essential support, it may not fully replace your pre-injury income or address all the challenges you may face.
Temporary disability payments are usually about two-thirds of your regular weekly pay, subject to state-set limits. This reduction in income can make it hard to pay bills, especially if you have rent, car payments or a family to support.
Permanent disability benefits depend on how serious your injury is and how it affects your ability to work. These payments might not fully make up for long-term effects on your career or lifestyle.
Workers’ comp generally covers all necessary medical treatment for your work injury. However, you might encounter difficulties getting coverage for special treatments or alternative therapies.
If you cannot return to your old job, you can get a $6,000 voucher for job retraining. But this might not be enough if you need to learn skills for a completely new career.
Seeking legal guidance is crucial
Given these limitations, it is advisable for injured workers to obtain legal guidance. Your attorney can help clarify the benefits you qualify for and how they apply and secure the maximum compensation possible.