What Is Normal Workers Compensation?

What Normal Workers Compensation Covers

Normal workers compensation is a state-mandated insurance system that pays for medical treatment and a portion of lost wages when an employee is injured or becomes ill because of their job. It also provides death benefits to dependents if a workplace fatality occurs. In exchange, the employee generally cannot sue the employer for negligence. The specific benefits an injured worker receives depend on the severity of the injury, state laws, and whether the claim is accepted or disputed.

Types of Benefits Under Normal Workers Compensation

Medical Treatment

Normal workers compensation covers all reasonable and necessary medical care related to the work injury, including emergency treatment, surgery, doctor visits, physical therapy, prescription medications, and medical devices. There is typically no cap on medical benefits, but treatment must be authorized, and the employee must use approved providers in most states.

Temporary Disability Benefits

When an injury prevents an employee from working while recovering, normal workers compensation pays temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. These usually equal about two-thirds of the worker's average weekly wage, subject to a state minimum and maximum. Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits apply if the worker can return to a lighter-duty job at lower pay.

Permanent Disability Benefits

If the injury results in a lasting impairment, normal workers compensation provides permanent partial disability (PPD) or permanent total disability (PTD) benefits. PPD is paid based on the body part affected and the degree of impairment, often using a schedule of weeks set by state law. PTD benefits are paid for life when the worker cannot return to any employment.

Death Benefits

Normal workers compensation pays burial expenses and a percentage of the deceased worker's wages to surviving spouses and dependents when a workplace injury causes death.

What Normal Workers Compensation Does Not Cover

Normal workers compensation does not cover pain and suffering or punitive damages. It also excludes injuries caused by intoxication, self-inflicted wounds, or willful misconduct. Some occupational diseases and mental health claims face additional evidentiary hurdles depending on the state.