What Is Workers’ Compensation, and How Does It Work in Missouri?

Workers’ compensation provides financial assistance for work-related injuries or illnesses. In Missouri, it generally covers medical costs, lost wages, and disability benefits.

What is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Regardless of who is at fault, this system offers protection and compensation to workers, ensuring their rights and well-being.

Key features of workers’ compensation include:

• Wage replacement for lost income due to injury or illness
• Medical treatment coverage
• Permanent disability benefits
• Vocational rehabilitation support

For employers, workers’ compensation insurance provides legal protection, limiting their liability for workplace incidents.

Workers’ Compensation in Missouri: An Overview

In Missouri, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This mandate applies to businesses with five or more employees and all construction industry businesses, irrespective of the number of employees.

Key points about workers’ compensation in Missouri include:

• Employers with five or more employees (or with any number of employees in the construction industry) are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance from the day an employee starts work.
• If an employee is injured, the employer or their insurance company has the right to select the treating physician, not the employee.
• If the work-related injury or illness results in disability, the employee may be entitled to temporary or permanent disability benefits depending on the severity and permanence of their condition.
• If a worker dies as a result of a work-related injury or illness, dependents may be eligible for death benefits.

How Does Workers’ Compensation Work in Missouri?

The process begins when a worker experiences a work-related injury or illness.

1. Report the Incident: The injured worker must report the incident to their employer immediately or within 30 days.
2. Medical Treatment: The employer or their insurance carrier should provide the necessary medical treatment. Workers can select their treating physician.
3. Claim Filing: A formal claim must be filed within two years of the injury date or last received compensation payment.
4. Benefits Assessment: Depending on the nature of the injury, the worker may receive temporary total disability, temporary partial disability, permanent total disability, or permanent partial disability benefits.
5. Disputes: If there are disputes regarding the claim, workers can request a hearing before the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation.

Role of a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Missouri

Navigating the complexities of a workers’ compensation claim can be daunting. This is where the knowledge and experience of a Kansas City, MO workers’ compensation lawyer can prove invaluable. A lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.

Some of the ways a lawyer can assist include:

• Helping with the initial filing of the claim
• Advocating for you during the hearing process
• Negotiating settlements
• Assisting in case of claim denial or disputes

Contact a Kansas City, MO Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today

Understanding the intricacies of workers’ compensation and ensuring your rights are protected can be a complex process. It’s crucial to have experienced legal representation when dealing with such matters. If you or a loved one has been injured at work, don’t navigate the claim process alone.

Speak with a Kansas City, MO workers’ compensation lawyer at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and helping you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve. Get in touch today for a consultation.

Remember, when it comes to workers’ compensation, knowledge is power. Equip yourself with the right information and professional assistance to ensure a smooth and successful claim process.