Indiana Workers' Compensation Laws

Indiana is home to a stellar lineup of college sports and small-town charm. Whether you sell musical instruments, unclog drains, or decorate cakes, you know that looking out for one another in the Hoosier State is just par for the course. But if you get hurt on the job, you are entitled to coverage for medical bills and other expenses under Indiana workers' compensation laws.

The table and information below summarize the most important aspects of Indiana's workers' comp laws.

Coverage

Most employers in Indiana are required by law to carry workers' compensation insurance for their employees. However, there are exceptions, including most railroad employees and independent contractors. Unlike many states, domestic workers are not specifically excluded by law. Mental injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and panic attacks, may be compensable. Most occupational diseases are covered, including mesothelioma and carpal tunnel syndrome. Indiana's workers' comp insurance program does not require you to prove that your injury was your employer's fault, though your employer may defend against your claim by alleging that you intentionally harmed yourself

Benefits

Indiana offers wage replacement and payment for medical treatment. Wage replacement comes in varying amounts for varying durations, depending on the severity of your disability. In most cases wage replacement compensation is based off of 66 2/3 percent of you average weekly wage, subject to state-imposed maximums. While there is no job protection and Indiana is an at will employment state, your employer may not fire you because your disability prevents you from doing your job.

Dispute Resolution

If your claim is denied, you may initiate an informal dispute by filing a Request for Assistance (State Form 45442) with the Workers' Compensation Board of Indiana. In addition, mediation services are available. If you feel you need a formal, more traditional avenue for resolving your benefits dispute, you may file an Application for Adjustment of Claim (SF 29109) to schedule a hearing before a member of the Workers' Compensation Board. Whichever course of action you choose, you or your attorney will need to submit evidence to support your position. This evidence could be in the form of testimony from your fellow employees, wage stubs for calculating your benefits, or medical bills which your insurer declined to pay.

Discuss Indiana Workers' Compensation Laws with an Experienced Indiana Attorney

Accidents happen, but when they result in you losing time away from work, they can get expensive. Your employer is required to carry workers' compensation insurance to compensate you for wage replacement and medical treatment. Filing workers' comp claims and contesting denials of your claims can get overwhelming. If you were injured at work and need help navigating the workers' compensation system, you can discuss your situation with an experienced Indiana attorney.