Workplace conditions and accidents are responsible for a multitude of injuries in Massachusetts each year. People who sustain harm at work often require extensive medical care and can no longer earn an income, but in many instances, they are eligible to recover workers’ compensation benefits. It is critical for injured workers to understand their rights and what benefits they may be able to recover, and anyone hurt at work should speak to an attorney as soon as possible. James K. Meehan of the Law Office of James K. Meehan is a skillful Bristol County lawyer, who is adept at navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation claims, and if you hire him, he will zealously pursue any benefits you may be owed. Mr. Meehan routinely represents employees in the pursuit of workers’ compensation benefits in Bristol County and in Plymouth and Norfolk Counties as well.
The Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Act (the Act) provides that only employees are eligible to recover workers’ compensation benefits. As such, volunteers, independent contractors, and other noted professionals are not owed benefits under the Act. Further, the Act dictates that only work-related harm is compensable. In other words, an employee must suffer an injury or illness that occurs as a direct result of his or her employment to recover benefits. Injuries may include those caused by trauma, repetitive stress injuries, and worsening of pre-existing conditions.
Employees who suffer work-related injuries that require treatment from a health professional may be granted medical benefits that cover the cost of any medical care that is adequate and reasonable. This can include hospitalization, surgery, diagnostic testing, and prescription medication. Injured employees may also be able to recover the costs associated with traveling to and from appointments with healthcare providers. Employers or their insurers often have the right to select a doctor or hospital for the initial evaluation, but employees can designate their treatment providers after that.
Injured employees that are unable to work or must work at a reduced capacity are eligible for disability benefits. Temporary partial disability benefits are paid to employees who can work but not at the same level or for the same amount of time as they did prior to the accident. Temporary partial disability benefits are paid for up to 260 weeks, at a rate of sixty percent of the difference between the employee’s pre-harm and post-harm average weekly wage. Temporary total disability benefits are paid to employees who are unable to work for five or more days. They may be paid for up to 156 weeks at a rate of sixty percent of their pre-injury average weekly wages. Finally, employees who suffer a lasting and complete inability to work may be eligible for permanent and total disability benefits, for as long as their incapacity endures, at a rate of two-thirds of their pre-harm average weekly wage.
In addition to medical and disability benefits, injured employees may be granted compensation for any scarring, disfigurement, or permanent loss of bodily function they suffered because of their work-related harm. If they are unable to return to their previous positions, they might be eligible for vocational rehabilitation as well, which helps them seek employment in other fields. Further, in cases in which a worker dies due to an injury or illness, his or her dependents or survivors may be granted benefits.
Work-related injuries often cause significant financial hardships, but fortunately, many injured employees are eligible to recover workers’ compensation benefits for their harm. If you were hurt at work, you might be owed benefits, and it is in your best interest to consult an attorney regarding your potential claims. James K. Meehan of the Law Office of James K. Meehan is a capable lawyer who can advise you of your options and help you to seek the best legal result possible under the facts of your case. Mr. Meehan has an office in Taunton, and he regularly represents employees in workers’ compensation claims in Bristol County and also in Plymouth and Norfolk Counties. You can reach Mr. Meehan by calling 508-822-6600 or via the online form to set up a complimentary and confidential consultation.