Every employer in the state of Idaho is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to compensate any worker who is injured on the job. The purpose of the program is to ensure any lost wages and medical care needed as a result of the incident are covered. However, most employees aren’t familiar with workers compensation law in Burley ID and therefore don’t receive all compensation they are entitled to. What should every employee know about this program and its benefits?
Who Is Covered?
First and foremost, a person needs to know if they are covered by this program. Any public or private employer is required to carry the insurance for both full- and part-time workers, even if they only have one employee. There are exemptions to this rule, however, and employees may determine if they are covered by visiting the Idaho Industrial Commission’s (IIC) website. For example, a real estate broker whose only compensation is commission will not be covered under the law.
How to File a Claim
An employee must first report the incident to the employer immediately. Ensure a report is filed at this time and do so regardless of how minor the injury is. If an employee waits more than 60 days to file the report, he or she may lose the right to collect the benefits provided under the law. When an employee reports the incident, the employer must provide the paperwork needed to file for benefits and the forms may also be found on the IIC website.
Obtaining Medical Treatment
An employee should seek medical care immediately and the employer can provide information on which doctors are to be seen. If the injury is serious, however, head straight to the nearest hospital to obtain this care. The employer does have the right to determine which physicians are used to care for the employee except in emergencies. Be sure to learn who these physicians are before obtaining care. Furthermore, the program is designed to cover all medical treatment that is deemed reasonable and necessary.
If you need assistance in figuring out workers compensation law in Burley ID, contact Gariepy Law Office. A workplace-related injury is often devastating to the employee and his or her family. The team at this firm works to reduce the impact as much as possible. Call today to schedule a consultation and get the process started on handling the claim.
