People go to work every day expecting to go through their usual routine. People do not typically think about an accident happening at work. Regardless of what an individual’s job is, there is always the possibility of an accident happening at work. If this does happen, employees may feel a sense of relief knowing that workers’ compensation is available if they become injured on the job.
Workers’ Compensation
If an employee is injured at work, financial compensation is available to them. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that benefits employees who are injured or suffer from an occupational illness while at work. Workers’ compensation in Connecticut covers almost all employees. This includes minors, non-citizens, and part-time employees. This is regardless of their profession, business size, and how many hours they work in a day. The compensation allows them to collect benefits that assist them while they cannot work. It may cover medical bills, lost wages, and any lost future wages. In addition to this, these benefits may also cover:
- Medical treatment
- Weekly benefits while disabled
- Vocational rehabilitation, if necessary
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Permanent physical impairment
If an employee is injured at work, it is important that they report the accident to their employer immediately. In addition to this, they must file a claim if they wish to receive workers’ compensation. The claim will then be reviewed and a decision will be made. It is important to know that, both parties have the right to appeal the decision if a claim is approved or denied.
Who is Responsible?
When an employee is injured at work, they may be able to hold their employer responsible. However, this can make for an uncomfortable work environment. Instead of going after an employer, employees can receive workers’ compensation. This no-fault insurance may cover an individual regardless of if they or their employer is at fault. When an employee receives workers’ compensation, neither they or the employer is held responsible.
Workers’ compensation protects all parties involved, as employees are not allowed to take legal action against their employer if they are receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Circumstances may differ if a third party was involved in the accident.
Third Party Lawsuits
While an employee cannot pursue legal action against an employer if they are receiving workers’ compensation, they may be able to do so against a third party. If another party is responsible for the injury, they may be held liable through a personal injury lawsuit while the employee still collects workers’ compensation. If the employee wins the lawsuit and receives compensation, they may be required to pay back the workers’ compensation they received.
Contact our Firm
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident and wishes to seek legal counsel, contact The Law Offices of Marc N. Needelman today.
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. Contact the law firm to set up a free initial consultation for matters, related to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.
