Enacted in 1948, the Worker’s Compensation Law guarantees the payment of certain medical bills and lost income to people who are injured on the job. Essentially, worker’s comp is a no-fault insurance plan because most work-related injuries are covered even if the employee’s actions contributed to the injury.
Worker’s compensation covers any job-related injury, no matter its severity. According to the Mississippi Worker’s Compensation Commission, occupational diseases, illnesses and death are also covered.
Unfortunately, some people are wrongfully denied worker’s compensation benefits or not paid the full compensation they deserve. If you were injured at work or denied fair benefits, contact Ballard Law, PLLC.
Attorney William E. Ballard will evaluate your situation, answer your questions, and provide comprehensive legal guidance. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free initial consultation with an injury attorney in Madison.
Are All Employers Required to Provide Worker’s Compensation Insurance?
Most workers in Mississippi are covered by the Worker’s Compensation Law; however, there are a few exceptions. Employers who have fewer than five employees may not be required to provide worker’s compensation insurance coverage. These employers often choose to provide coverage voluntarily.
Unless coverage is provided by the employer voluntarily, the Worker’s Compensation Law does not protect:
- Domestic and farm labor;
- Employees of certain non-profits, charities, religious and cultural organizations;
- Maritime and transportation employees who are covered by federal compensation laws; or
- Independent contractors.
Can I Choose My Own Doctor?
Yes. You can and should choose your own doctor. It is important to remember that you must choose one doctor and all referrals must come from that doctor.
Will I Have to Pay a Deductible for Worker’s Compensation Benefits?
No. Although employers typically have to pay a deductible for worker’s compensation insurance, employees do not have to pay a deductible to receive benefits.
How Will I Receive Payments for Lost Income and Medical Bills?
Once your claim has been approved, your employer or its insurance company will make payments for your medical bills directly to the doctor or other medical provider. Payments for lost wages will be sent directly to you or to your legal representative.
How Long Will I Be Paid for Lost Wages?
If you were totally and permanently disabled in a work-related accident, you can receive payments for lost wages for up to 450 weeks. If your injuries caused less than total and permanent disability, the duration of your payments depends on the nature of the disability and injury. If a worker dies, payments will be made to dependents for up to 450 weeks.
If you were injured on the job in Mississippi, turn to Ballard Law, PLLC for compassionate legal representation. Mr. Ballard will help you avoid mistakes that could reduce the amount of compensation you recover or prevent you from recovering any compensation at all.
You will pay no attorneys’ fees unless you recover compensation. Call 769-572-5111 to arrange a free initial consultation with an injury attorney in Madison.
