Introduction: What Constitutes a Catastrophic Injury?
In general, the definition of a catastrophic injury is an injury that permanently prevents the victim’s ability to work or perform other tasks of daily living. For example, this can include paralysis, brain damage, and more. The full extent of an injury must be evaluated to determine if the injury is catastrophic. For example, a broken leg could be classified as a minimal injury depending on the nature and severity of the break.
In addition, a catastrophic injury is often the result of an accident. People with a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury can experience severe physical or cognitive impairments that disrupt their ability to perform daily tasks.
Unfortunately, catastrophic injuries are not always easy to identify. In fact, they may not be immediately apparent. Thus, the symptoms may take years to show up.
Personal injury and disability law are complex subjects that can be confusing to those who do not have a background in the field. If you think you have a disability or disability benefits claim, it is important that you speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
What is Workers Compensation?
Workers compensation is a type of insurance that protects workers in the event of a work-related injury. In other words, this insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages for the injured worker. However, workers’ comp is not a substitute for private health insurance or workers’ comp coverage. But it does provide some protection against the costs of work-related injuries. Plus, the three types of workers comp coverage are:
1. Worker’s Compensation Insurance
This form of insurance coverage is in the US. In general, this type of insurance provides benefits and income replacement to employees who obtained an injury or illness on the job. Further, both employers and employees pay for it. However, the employer pays a larger share. In most states, workers covered by this insurance are entitled to benefits such as medical care, income support, long-term disability and other benefits, depending on length of service and other factors. In fact, employee payroll deductions with employers paying a share based on the size of their workforce fund the insurance program. Finally, there is no cap on the amount of premiums employers must contribute each year. Although there are caps for some benefits.
2. Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance
With the help of employer-sponsored health insurance, many people receive healthcare benefits that would otherwise be unaffordable. Also, this type of insurance legally requires employers to provide their employees with certain coverage and care. In the United States, one of the cornerstones of our national health care system is employer-sponsored healthcare.
3. Health Benefits Provided by a Company
A lot of people work in offices today, which can lead to a sedentary lifestyle. However, employees don’t have to live this way any longer. For example, leading companies encourage healthy habits by providing gym memberships and healthy snacks in the office. As a result, this is good for both the company and its employees because it keeps them happy and productive.
What Happens to Your Benefits if You’re Injured in an Accident?
Accidents happen, and when they do, you deserve compensation. If the accident involved a fellow employee, then the company should be covered by work comp. However, if it is an employer-based accident, then the injured party may be eligible for workers’ comp.
If your employer fires you for reporting an accident, then you may be eligible for workers’ comp. If a supervisor or manager breaks a law related to your injury, then the company would also be covered. For example, if a supervisor or manager orders you to not take time off of work after an accident, and this is directly related to your injury, then the company would be held liable for not allowing you to take time off. As a result, that supervisor or manager would be held accountable for their law breaking behavior.
Some things an injured party can do to determine if the accident is work comp or not are:
- Ask the employer what type of coverage the company provides.
- If no coverage, then it is an employer-based accident.
- Talk to your supervisor or team leader if it is work comp.
- If a worker is unsure of whether or not they have the right to file a work comp claim, they should follow the guidance given by their employer.
- If an employee does not know who their employer is, they should contact their state insurance division.
What Should You Do if You Have a Severe Injury?
To start, it is important to know that workman’s comp benefits are not just for people who obtain an injury at work. If you obtain an injury while on the job, you are eligible for these benefits in the state of Georgia. So, your employer will be able to help you with the process of filing a claim and getting your benefits.
It’s no secret that filing for a disability claim can be a confusing, intimidating process. Fortunately, we are here to help! With a workers’ comp lawyer by your side, we can work together to make sure you’re submitting all the right paperwork and getting your benefits as soon as possible.
FAQs About Filing For A Catastrophic Injury Disability Claim
The following information will answer the most common questions about filing for a catastrophic injury disability claim.
Q: What is a catastrophic injury?
A: A catastrophic injury is an injury that leaves you with a disability and prevents you from working.
Q: What are some examples of catastrophic injuries?
A: Some examples of catastrophic injuries include cancer, heart attack, stroke, brain damage, paralysis, and amputation.
Q: What are the benefits of filing for a Catastrophic Injury Disability Claim?
A: In short, Catastrophic Injury Disability Claims provide individuals with a monthly income while they are unable to work. People can use the monthly income to cover any medical expenses, cover living expenses, and pay off debts.
Q: How much is the monthly disability payment?
A: In general, the severity of the injury determines the monthly disability payment. But it typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 per month.
Q: What does filing for a Catastrophic Injury Disability Claim involve?
A: Filing for a Catastrophic Injury Disability Claim involves filling out an application form and providing your employer’s contact information and proof of your injury. Then a doctor will need to certify the injury and provide medical documentation. Usually, applicants must submit medical records, x-rays, and a police report documenting the accident. In most cases, the time frame for filing a claim depends on the state in which you live. In some states, the law requires that a person to file a claim within 12 months of the date of injury while others allow up to three years after an accident.
If you need help making a workers’ comp claim for an injury you obtained at work, consult a workers’ comp lawyer today. This process can be complex and frustrating. So, a dedicated and experienced attorney can guide you through it and ensure you get all the benefits you deserve. Contact an attorney to start your case today.