{"id":353607,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:02","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-questions-and-answers.html"},"modified":"2025-11-24T13:41:00","modified_gmt":"2025-11-24T18:41:00","slug":"workers-compensation-questions-and-answers","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-questions-and-answers.html","title":{"rendered":"Workers\u2019 Compensation for Employees: FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Workers\u2019 Compensation for Employees: FAQ<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/jade-yeban-j-d\/\">Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/katrina-wilson-esq\/\">Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            November 24, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <p>Workers\u2019 compensation provides insurance benefits to employees who suffer job\u2011related injuries or illnesses. <span data-term-id=\"55270156\">Eligibility<\/span> and employer responsibilities vary by state, and the claims process can involve strict deadlines and detailed reporting requirements. In some situations, legal help may be necessary.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Workers\u2019 compensation protects employees who suffer job\u2011related injuries or illnesses by covering <span data-term-id=\"55270130\">medical care<\/span>, <span data-term-id=\"55270142\">lost wages<\/span>, and other benefits. Because the rules vary by state and the claims process can be complex, it\u2019s understandable that <span data-term-id=\"55270135\">injured employees<\/span> have questions about the workers\u2019 comp system.<\/p>\n<p>This <span data-term-id=\"55270138\">FAQ<\/span> answers questions about workers\u2019 compensation. Learn about <span data-term-id=\"55270156\">eligibility<\/span>, exemptions, what to expect during the claims process, and more. An <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/workers-compensation-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">attorney near you<\/a> can also answer your questions and offer legal advice tailored to your situation.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#What\">What are workers&#8217; compensation\u00a0benefits?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Eligible\">Am I eligible for workers&#8217; comp?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Employer\">What are my employer&#8217;s responsibilities on workers&#8217; comp?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#whatif\">What if my employer doesn&#8217;t have workers&#8217; comp insurance?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#smallbusiness\">Do small businesses need to carry workers&#8217; comp insurance?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Benefits\">How much will I get in benefits?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Doctor\">Can I see my own doctor?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Disability\">Can I get workers&#8217; compensation and Social Security disability?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Job\">What if I can do some work, but not my regular job?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Part-Time\">What if I&#8217;m a part-time worker?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Denied\">What happens if my claim gets denied?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Long\">How long do I have to file a claim?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Death\">What are death benefits?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Lawyer\">Do I need a lawyer to file a workers&#8217; comp claim?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Attorney\">Confused by the workers&#8217; compensation process? An attorney can help<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><a id=\"What\"><\/a>What Do Workers&#8217; Compensation Benefits Cover?<\/h2>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"55270125\">Workers\u2019 compensation benefits<\/span> are a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-comp-in-depth.html\">type of insurance<\/a> that provides help to employees who have a <span data-term-id=\"55270139\">work-related injury<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"55270146\">occupational disease<\/span>. These benefits can cover:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"55270134\">Medical expenses<\/span> and <span data-term-id=\"55270130\">medical care<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"55270142\">Lost wages<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/rehabilitation-rights-of-injured-workers.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"55270163\">Vocational rehabilitation<\/span><\/a>, if you need to learn a new <span data-term-id=\"55270160\">type of work<\/span> because of your injury<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><a id=\"Eligible\"><\/a>Am I Eligible for Workers&#8217; Comp?<\/h2>\n<p>To <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-eligibility.html\">qualify for workers\u2019 comp benefits<\/a>, you must be an employee with a job-related injury or illness. This can happen suddenly, such as falling off a ladder. It can also occur gradually over time, like hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud noises at work. It\u2019s essential to give <span data-term-id=\"55270152\">written notice<\/span> to your employer about your injury as soon as possible.<\/p>\n<p>In almost all states, your employer must carry <span data-term-id=\"55270128\">workers\u2019 compensation insurance<\/span> unless they are self-insured. Some workers, like <a href=\"https:\/\/findlaw.com\/employment\/hiring-process\/part-time-temporary-and-seasonal-employees.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"55270149\">independent contractors<\/span> or seasonal workers<\/a>, may not be eligible.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Employer\"><\/a>What Are My Employer&#8217;s Responsibilities for Workers&#8217; Comp?<\/h2>\n<p>On top of providing <span data-term-id=\"55270144\">workers\u2019 compensation coverage<\/span>, in most states,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-comp-employers-responsibilities.html\">employers must\u00a0perform<\/a> some, if not all, of the following duties:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Post a notice of compliance with <span data-term-id=\"55270132\">workers\u2019 compensation laws<\/span><\/strong> in an obvious place at each job site.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Provide immediate emergency <span data-term-id=\"55270124\">medical treatment<\/span><\/strong> for <span data-term-id=\"55270135\">injured employees<\/span> who sustain on-the-<span data-term-id=\"55270181\">job injuries<\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Furnish further medical attention<\/strong> if an <span data-term-id=\"55270131\">injured worker<\/span> cannot select a <span data-term-id=\"55270141\">medical provider<\/span> or tells the employer in writing of a desire not to do so.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Complete a report of injury about the workplace injury. <\/strong>The employer must mail it to the nearest workers\u2019 compensation board office. At the same time, they must also send a copy of the report to the <span data-term-id=\"55270150\">employer\u2019s <\/span><span data-term-id=\"55270127\">insurance<\/span><span data-term-id=\"55270127\"> company<\/span>. An employer who refuses or neglects to make an injury report may be guilty of a misdemeanor that is punishable by a fine.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Make a written report of every accident resulting in personal injury<\/strong> that causes a loss of time from regular duties beyond the working day or shift when the accident occurred. They must also make a written report for every accident resulting in personal injury that requires <span data-term-id=\"55270124\">medical treatment<\/span> beyond first aid or more than two treatments by a doctor or any other persons rendering first aid.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Follow all requests for further information about <span data-term-id=\"55270131\">injured workers<\/span>.<\/strong> These requests will come from the workers\u2019 compensation board or the <span data-term-id=\"55270127\">insurance company<\/span>. Examples of what the employer might need to send include the employee\u2019s earnings before and after the accident, reports of the date of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-comp-benefits-and-returning-to-work.html\">employee\u2019s return to work<\/a>, or other reports to determine the employee\u2019s work status following the injury.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Workers\u2019 compensation system rules vary by state. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/important-questions-to-ask-a-workers-compensation-lawyer.html\">Talk to an attorney<\/a> to learn more about <span data-term-id=\"55270156\">eligibility<\/span> and exemptions in your state.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"whatif\"><\/a>What If My Employer Doesn\u2019t Have Workers\u2019 Comp Insurance?<\/h2>\n<p>In every state except Texas, employers must buy employee insurance from a <span data-term-id=\"55270166\">workers\u2019 compensation insurance<\/span><span data-term-id=\"55270166\"> carrier<\/span>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-laws-by-state.html\">In some states<\/a>, larger employers with enough assets can self-insure or act as their own <span data-term-id=\"55270127\">insurance companies<\/span>, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/liability-and-insurance\/workers-compensation.html\">smaller companies are exempt<\/a>. A smaller company is typically one with fewer than three or four employees.<\/p>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"55270131\">Injured workers<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/the-workers-compensation-claim-process.html\">file a claim<\/a> with the <span data-term-id=\"55270127\">insurance company<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"55270177\">self-insuring employer<\/span> after a <span data-term-id=\"55270169\">work-related accident<\/span>. The <span data-term-id=\"55270127\">insurance company<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"55270177\">self-insuring employer<\/span> pays medical and <span data-term-id=\"55270133\">disability benefits<\/span> according to a state-approved formula. Unless exempt, employers without a <span data-term-id=\"55270128\">workers\u2019 compensation <\/span><span data-term-id=\"55270175\">insurance<\/span><span data-term-id=\"55270175\"> policy<\/span> are subject to fines, criminal prosecution, and civil liability.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"smallbusiness\"><\/a>Do Small Businesses Need To Carry Workers\u2019 Comp Insurance?<\/h2>\n<p>Generally speaking, yes. In many states, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/liability-and-insurance\/workers-compensation.html\">small businesses<\/a> do need to carry <span data-term-id=\"55270128\">workers\u2019 compensation insurance<\/span>. This helps them if an employee gets hurt at work. The rules can vary based on the size and type of the business, so\u00a0it\u2019s essential to know your local laws.<\/p>\n<p>In most states,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/sole-proprietorships.html\">sole proprietors<\/a>\u00a0and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/types-of-partnerships.html\">partnerships<\/a> aren\u2019t required to purchase workers\u2019 compensation unless and until they have employees who aren\u2019t owners. Most states will allow sole proprietors and partners to cover themselves for workers comp if they choose to. Some states don\u2019t require employees to be covered if they are paid solely on commission.<\/p>\n<p>Many states exempt employers with only a few employees from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/agencies\/owcp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">mandatory coverage laws<\/a>. The threshold number of employees that triggers mandatory insurance is either three, four, or five, depending on the state.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Benefits\"><\/a>How Much Will I Get in Workers&#8217; Comp Benefits?<\/h2>\n<p>The amount you get in benefits usually depends on your <span data-term-id=\"55270148\">average weekly wage<\/span> before the <span data-term-id=\"55270137\">date of injury<\/span>. You can get up to two-thirds of your <span data-term-id=\"55270148\">average weekly wage<\/span> in most states if you are off work. The exact amount and type of benefits can change if you have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/the-difference-between-workers-comp-and-disability-benefits.html\"><span data-term-id=\"55270143\">temporary total disability<\/span><\/a> (<span data-term-id=\"55270176\">TTD<\/span>), a permanent disability, or a partial disability.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Doctor\"><\/a>Can I See My Own Doctor?<\/h2>\n<p>It depends on where you live. In some states, you can choose your <span data-term-id=\"55270145\">treating physician<\/span>. In other states, the employer\u2019s <span data-term-id=\"55270128\">workers\u2019 compensation insurance<\/span> adjuster chooses the <span data-term-id=\"55270167\">health care provider<\/span>. Check the laws in your state or ask a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/workers-compensation-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">workers\u2019 compensation attorney<\/a> for more guidance.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Disability\"><\/a>Can I Get Workers&#8217; Compensation and Social Security Disability?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes, you can get both. But, the amount of workers\u2019 comp benefits might reduce how much you can get from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/socialsecurity\/disability\/social-security-disability-explained.html\"><span data-term-id=\"55270165\">Social Security<\/span><span data-term-id=\"55270165\"> disability<\/span><\/a>. If this applies to you, seek legal advice.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Job\"><\/a>What if I Can Do Some Work, but Not My Regular Job?<\/h2>\n<p>If your injury prevents you from performing your usual job duties, you may still qualify for light-duty work. Light-duty work means tasks that are less physically demanding or modified to fit your medical restrictions.<\/p>\n<p>Employers must respect any restrictions outlined by your <span data-term-id=\"55270167\">health care provider<\/span>. For example, if your doctor says you cannot lift more than 10 pounds, your employer cannot assign you tasks that require heavy lifting. If your assignment violates your restrictions, you should notify your employer and consider <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/important-questions-to-ask-a-workers-compensation-lawyer.html\">seeking legal advice<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If your light-duty job pays less than your regular position, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-basics.html\">workers\u2019 compensation<\/a> may cover part of the difference.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Part-Time\"><\/a>What if I&#8217;m a Part-Time Worker?<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/i-have-a-job-related-injury-what-are-my-employers-responsibilitie.html\"><span data-term-id=\"55270178\">Part-time<\/span> workers<\/a> can still receive workers\u2019 comp benefits. The amount depends on your wages, which are likely lower than those of a\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"55270171\">full-time<\/span>\u00a0worker, so it may be less.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Denied\"><\/a>What Happens if My Claim Gets Denied?<\/h2>\n<p>If your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-comp-denied-here-are-your-next-steps.html\"><span data-term-id=\"55270129\">workers\u2019 compensation claim<\/span> is denied<\/a>, you\u2019re not necessarily out of options. Denials are fairly common, and most states allow you to appeal the decision. If this occurs, getting expert legal help can make a significant difference in whether you ultimately receive benefits.<\/p>\n<p>Common reasons for <span data-term-id=\"55270129\">workers\u2019 compensation claim<\/span> denials include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>You missed the time limit (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-statute-of-limitations-by-state.html\">statute of limitations<\/a>) for reporting the injury or filing the claim.<\/li>\n<li>You have insufficient medical evidence linking your condition to your job.<\/li>\n<li>You were classified as an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/hiring-process\/being-an-independent-contractor-vs-employee.html\"><span data-term-id=\"55270149\">independent contractor<\/span><\/a> instead of an employee.<\/li>\n<li>The <span data-term-id=\"55270166\">workers\u2019 compensation insurance<\/span><span data-term-id=\"55270166\"> carrier<\/span> believes your injury was not work-related.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><a id=\"Long\"><\/a>How Long Do I Have To File a Claim?<\/h2>\n<p>There is a time limit for filing a claim, known as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-statute-of-limitations-by-state.html\">statute of limitations<\/a>. This limit varies by state for different types of injuries. Report your injury and state your claim immediately.<\/p>\n<p>Waiting too long can result in losing your right to benefits, even if your injury is severe. If you\u2019re unsure about your state\u2019s deadline, consult a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/workers-compensation-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">workers\u2019 comp lawyer<\/a> right away to avoid missing your window for benefits.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Death\"><\/a>What Are Death Benefits?<\/h2>\n<p>In some cases, the injury or illness results in death. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/small-business\/what-are-death-benefits-and-whos-entitled-to-them\/\"><span data-term-id=\"55270159\">Death benefits<\/span><\/a> are a type of <span data-term-id=\"55270125\">workers\u2019 compensation benefit<\/span> paid to the <span data-term-id=\"55270151\">dependents<\/span> of a worker who dies because of a job-related injury or illness. These benefits can include payments to help replace the worker\u2019s <span data-term-id=\"55270142\">lost wages<\/span> and to cover funeral expenses. The exact amount and <span data-term-id=\"55270156\">eligibility<\/span> depend on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-laws-by-state.html\">laws of your state<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Lawyer\"><\/a>Do I Need a Lawyer To File a Workers&#8217; Comp Claim?<\/h2>\n<p>You can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-resources.html\">file a claim on your own<\/a>. The process can be difficult. An expert lawyer can help you understand the process, though. They can also help you gather evidence and argue for your benefits.<\/p>\n<p>Workers\u2019 compensation lawyers usually work on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/attorneys-and-fees.html\">contingency fee basis.<\/a> That means they only get paid if they win your case. The fee is usually a portion of the benefits you get.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"Attorney\"><\/a>Confused by the Workers&#8217; Compensation Process? An Attorney Can Help<\/h2>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"55270129\">Workers\u2019 compensation claims<\/span> involve several parties and can get confusing for non-lawyers. If you believe your employer is not taking care of its workers\u2019 comp responsibilities, you may need to assert your rights through legal action. For example, if you don\u2019t get reimbursed for your <span data-term-id=\"55270140\">impairment<\/span>, you should speak to an attorney about your legal options.<\/p>\n<p>Because <span data-term-id=\"55270153\">state law<\/span> is relevant, your legal advisor should be licensed in the state where you work. FindLaw\u2019s directory of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/workers-compensation-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">workers\u2019 compensation attorneys<\/a> can get you started.\u00a0Select your state or city to review ratings and <span data-term-id=\"55270172\">contact information<\/span> for local experts. Then, reach out for help getting <span data-term-id=\"55270158\">reimbursement<\/span> for your <span data-term-id=\"55270142\">lost wages<\/span> and <span data-term-id=\"55270157\">medical bills<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3418\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help seek fair compensation on your behalf\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Accident and injury claims are complex and insurance carriers have lawyers on their side\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Legal help is crucial if your claim is denied or benefits are delayed\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions about your injury. Many attorneys offer free consultations.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL3905\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input id=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" name=\"email\" autocomplete=\"email\"\/>\n                <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Submit\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-success subscribe-success-message fl-text-sm-bold\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"status\">Thank you for subscribing!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-error subscribe-error-message fl-text-sm-bold\" role=\"alert\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha\" class=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha subscribe-recaptcha\"\n                data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAAABGBEkK9kEeKxO-\"><\/div>\n        <\/form>\n\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-footer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p><a href=\"https:\/\/newsletters.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/can-i-sue.html\">\n                        Can I Sue?\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-who-is-liable.html\">\n                        Car Accident Liability\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment.html\">\n                        Employment Law\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/workers-compensation-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Workers&#8217; Compensation Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/labor-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Labor Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Rights Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/premises-liability-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Premises Liability Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/railroad-worker-injury-fela\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Railroad Worker Injury and FELA Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-accident\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Construction Accidents Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Personal Injury Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FindLaw answers frequently asked questions about workers\u2019 comp for employees. Learn about benefits, eligibility, employer duties, claim denials, and more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":353560,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2734],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-353607","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-injury"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353607","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=353607"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353607\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":398380,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353607\/revisions\/398380"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353560"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=353607"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=353607"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=353607"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=353607"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=353607"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}