Workers’ compensation is designed to protect you from losing your livelihood in the event of a workplace accident. It's not rewarded as damages for your injury or illness and, in all but extreme cases, prevents you from seeking legal recourse against your employer.
The percentage of lost wages you can recover through workers’ comp varies according to what state you live in, but is not equal to your regular pay.
In some states you may be able return to work part-time or in a lighter duty capacity before you're ready to return full-time. If you do return to work in a restricted capacity and are earning less than your regular wages, you might be entitled to continue receiving part of the difference through workers' comp.
Additionally, you should remember that workers’ compensation is awarded not just for lost wages but also to cover any medical expenses related to your injury or illness. If you have ongoing medical bills that stem from the initial injury but they don't preclude you from working, they'll most likely still be covered under workers’ compensation.
To make sure those medical bills are covered, it's always important to make sure a medical treatment you're pursuing will be paid for by workers’ compensation in your state, and that your company’s insurer considers it valid and of continued benefit.
If you're injured at your job, our office can help. Call us today at 816-842-7100 to speak with an attorney that will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Or you can click here to email us and schedule your free consultation.