Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Indiana: Your Rights as an Injured Worker
If you suffer an injury on the job in Indiana, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Indiana’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide financial and medical support to employees who are injured while performing job-related duties. Understanding your rights and the benefits available can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. For specific advice and representation related to your unique needs, contact Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, to speak with an experienced and dedicated Indianapolis workers’ compensation attorney.
Who Is Covered Under Indiana’s Workers’ Compensation Laws?
Most employees in Indiana are covered by the state’s workers’ compensation system. Indiana law requires nearly all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance, regardless of the size of the company. However, there are some exceptions, such as independent contractors, certain agricultural workers, and railroad employees who may be covered under different laws.
If you are classified as an employee and suffer a work-related injury or illness, you should be eligible for benefits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
What Benefits Are Available Under Workers’ Compensation?
Indiana’s workers’ compensation system provides several types of benefits to injured employees:
Medical Benefits
Workers’ compensation covers all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your work injury, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. However, your employer has the right to choose the treating physician. If you seek treatment from an unauthorized provider, your employer’s insurance may not cover the costs.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits
If your injury prevents you from working for more than seven days, you may be eligible for TTD benefits. These benefits provide two-thirds (66.67%) of your average weekly wage, subject to state maximums. If you are unable to work for more than 21 days, you may also receive compensation for the first seven days of missed work.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) Benefits
If you can return to work in a limited capacity but are earning less than you did before the injury, TPD benefits can help cover a portion of the difference in wages.
Permanent Partial Impairment (PPI) Benefits
If your injury results in a permanent disability but does not leave you completely unable to work, you may be entitled to PPI benefits. The amount depends on the severity of the impairment and is calculated using a rating system established by the Indiana Workers’ Compensation Board.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits
If your injury leaves you permanently unable to work in any capacity, you may receive PTD benefits, which provide wage replacement for the rest of your life.
Death Benefits for Surviving Dependents
If a workplace injury results in death, the worker’s dependents may be entitled to death benefits, including compensation for lost wages and burial expenses.
What Should You Do If You Are Injured at Work?
To protect your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve, follow these steps after a workplace injury:
- Report the Injury Promptly – Notify your employer as soon as possible. Indiana law requires employees to report work injuries within 30 days, but sooner is always better.
- Seek Medical Treatment – Follow your employer’s instructions regarding medical care and keep records of all treatments and expenses.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim – Your employer should submit a claim on your behalf, but if they fail to do so, you may need to file a claim with the Indiana Workers’ Compensation Board.
- Follow Medical Advice – Comply with all prescribed treatments and doctor’s recommendations to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
Unfortunately, some injured workers face claim denials or disputes over their benefits. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision by requesting a hearing before the Indiana Workers’ Compensation Board. Common reasons for denial include:
- Your employer disputes that the injury occurred at work.
- The insurance company claims that your injury was pre-existing.
- You did not report the injury within the required time frame.
If you encounter difficulties obtaining your benefits, an experienced Indianapolis workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Get Legal Help With Your Indiana Workers’ Compensation Claim
While Indiana’s workers’ compensation system is meant to protect injured workers, obtaining the full benefits you deserve can be challenging—especially if your employer or their insurance company disputes your claim. At Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and advocate for the benefits you need to recover.
If you’ve been injured at work, don’t navigate the system alone. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
