When you’re injured on the job and are unable to work for a period of time, you may wonder if you qualify for workers’ compensation benefits and how much of your lost income will be paid back to you.
Workers’ Compensation Medical Benefits in Rhode Island
RI workers’ comp covers all medical treatment that is reasonable and necessary as it relates to your work injury. Once medical benefits are awarded for an RI work injury, you receive them without monetary or time limitations. These benefits can include payment for:
- Medical expenses, including surgery, specific medical procedures, labs, radiology, and hospital and doctor bills
- Medications
- Assistive devices and equipment
You’ll also be reimbursed for your mileage to and from your medical appointments.
Additionally, mental injuries that are caused by excessive emotional stress or physical injury are also covered; however, you would not likely receive coverage for nervousness or stress due to a yearly review or a critical presentation or meeting.
Disability Benefits
Along with medical benefits, an injured worker may also qualify for disability benefits. Typically, an employee who is unable to work because of his injury is entitled to “wage replacement benefits equal to 75% of their average spendable weekly wage.” Workers’ comp calculates this number using a formula that factors in your average weekly wages, marital status, and the number of your dependents. RI workers’ comp sets a maximum weekly comp rate for these benefits each year.
You can receive partial disability benefits if you are able to return to work, but your injury causes you to earn less than you were making originally. Benefits for partial disability are “75% of the difference between your spendable base wage before you were injured and your earning capacity after your injury.” Generally, you can receive these benefits for up to 312 weeks. Once you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), your benefits may be reduced to “70% of the difference in your earnings.”
Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Attorney In Rhode Island
If you’ve suffered an injury at work, the legal team at Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum can help you get the compensation you are owed—and we only collect payment after your benefits are approved.
Have You Been Injured On The Job In Rhode Island?
If you've been hurt at work you need to speak with an experienced workers' compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help work injury victims in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.
|
Related Links: |
