The Workers Compensation Act was passed years ago to provide a uniform system of compensation for individuals injured during the course of their employment.  Employees may not directly sue their employer for injuries resulting from the  employers negligence or fault.  There are many third party actions which can result in direct liability.

Basically, coverage is automatic for employees injured during the course of their employment, without a showing of fault.

There are basically three categories of compensation for injured employees:

1. Medical Expense.
   An employee hurt during the course of his employment is entitled to medical care. However, the employer decides which medical provider shall provide the care. The employer is required to pay for the care of the doctor selected by the employer. If you consult physicians of your own choosing the workers compensation insurance carrier will  likely not pay for it.  Before you switch doctors, you need to speak with the nurse, or workers compensation  adjuster handling the claim.

2. Weekly Benefits.
   If you are off work for more than seven days continuously, your employer, or his insurance carrier, is required to pay what is known as temporary total disability payments.  This requires weekly payments  based on your average weekly wage.  This may be difficult to compute on individuals who have worked for a short period of time.

3. Permanent Partial Impairment.
   Finally, If you left with a permanent partial impairment as dictated by a treating physician, you will be entitled to a lump sum payment based on the nature and extent of the degree of impairment. Frequently, there is a debate as to the nature and the extent of the  impairment. 

I have provided various information in our learning library which you should review.  If you have questions please contact us.