11. Workers Compensation

Question 1

Workers Compensation

Answer 1

It is a statutory insurance scheme in which individuals that get hurt on the job get a guaranteed recovery, but they are forbidden to sue their employer.

Question 2

How it works

Answer 2

The employer, through an insurance company, is obligated to pay benefits to any covered employee if they are injured on the job

Question 3

Does it cover pain and suffering?

Answer 3

No

Question 4

Who is covered?

Answer 4

Employees are covered, but independent contractors are not.

Question 5

Other excluded people:

Answer 5

1. Teachers (Generally)
2. Non-manual laborers at not-for profits
3. Part time household employees
4. Clergy

Question 6

Exceptions to workers Compensation

Answer 6

1: if the P is injured solely due to his own intoxication, no remedy
2: If you intentionally try to injure yourself or someone else, no remedy
3: If you are injured in a voluntary off-duty athletic competition, no remedy

Question 7

What you get

Answer 7

All medical expenses
Lost wages (up to 2/3 of average weekly wage)
If you die, there is a specified statutory benefit

Question 8

What effect does workers compensation have on third parties?

Answer 8

None. Covered employees remain free to sue third parties that are not their own employer