According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2.7 million work injuries and illnesses were reported in 2020. With millions affected by on-the-job injuries and illness, it’s important for everyone to know their rights related to work injuries. In Iowa, Workers’ Compensation helps pay medical bills and lost income. The Iowa Workers’ Compensation Act requires employers to provide Workers’ Comp Benefits to employees who are injured at work.
Rush & Nicholson specializes in Workers’ Compensation Benefits that they are legally entitled to you. Here some basic details about Workers’ Compensation benefits and the types of injuries that are covered and not covered according to Iowa law.
Several Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits
In Iowa, Workers’ Compensation benefits can apply to temporary or permanent disabilities. These may be acute or cumulative injuries. The type of benefit you receive depends on your injury and whether you can return to work doing the same type of work you did before your injury. A physician can help determine the type of disability you qualify for.
Here are the types of disability benefits that may come into play
- Temporary Total Disability
- Temporary Partial Disability
- Permanent Total Disability
- Permanent Partial Disability
Employers must also pay for medical bills. Medical mileage and other costs associated with medical and therapy appointments may also be paid by the employer to injured workers.
Our previous blog post covers these types of disability benefits in greater depth. We encourage you to learn more about disability benefits and what they cover. Legal guidance from a Work Comp attorney can help you understand your rights as an injured worker and get you the benefits you deserve.
What Injuries are Covered by Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Acute or traumatic injuries that take place during work should be reported to the employer as soon as possible. Cumulative injuries and illnesses caused by exposures at work can also qualify. This includes hurting your back while lifting a box, smashing your finger in a file drawer, or an allergic reaction to a cleaning chemical.
If you work from home, an injury during work—for example, a neck tweak or wrist pain—should also be reported to your employer, as long as it occurs in the course of your employment and workday. Repetitive injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome can also be linked to work activities, such as computer work or equipment operation.
Our Work Comp Page and FAQs explains more about what types of work injuries are covered.
What is NOT Covered by Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Injuries that happen outside of work do not qualify for Workers’ Compensation benefits. For example, car accidents that take place during a daily commute do not qualify. Straining your knee while running over the lunch hour will not be eligible for work comp benefits. Only injuries that take place during work will qualify. Remember, work injuries must be reported within 90 days in order to be considered for benefits.
Want to learn more about Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Read our Beginner’s Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Iowa, and contact us for a free consultation.