Frequently Asked Questions
Worker's Compensation
What Should You Do If You Are Injured At Work?
It is important to immediately report injuries to your employer. You should seek medical or chiropractic care for your injury.
What Kinds Of Injuries Are Covered By Worker's Compensation?
Wisconsin law covers injuries resulting from accidents or occupational diseases (example: hearing loss or carpal tunnel syndrome). A compensable injury may be physical, mental or both.
An injury must have occurred within the course of your employment. However, "employers take their employees as they find them." If a worker has a pre-existing condition that made them more susceptible to injury, this does not bar the worker from compensation.
How Much Will I Be Paid While I Am Off From Work?
There are caps on weekly compensation that change yearly. There is no compensation due for the first three days off from work. However, after you have been off for seven days, then those first three days will also be paid.
Will My Healthcare Expenses Be Paid?
You are entitled to have all medical and other healthcare expenses paid by your employer's worker's compensation insurance company. You must obtain permission from the insurer or self-insured employer before receiving out-of-state treatment, otherwise, your treatment may not be paid. If you are injured at work, you should tell your healthcare providers that your injury is work related. However, you should also give them the billing information of your health insurer. If the Worker's Compensation claim is denied, they can then bill your health insurance so that you are not left with an unpaid bill.
What Other Benefits Am I Entitled To Receive?
If you have a permanent injury there are other benefits to which you may be entitled.
These include:
- Permanent Partial Disability payments;
- Vocational Rehabilitation;
- Loss of Earning Capacity payments;
- Other penalties, such as safety violations and disfigurement payments.
