Wisconsin Injury Workers’ Compensation Claims: What You Need to Know
Employees are the backbone of our economy. Every worker in Wisconsin is entitled to safe and fair conditions on the job. Unfortunately, work injuries still occur far too frequently — with tens of thousands of people affected every year. If you or your loved one was hurt at work, you need to know how to protect your rights and get the benefits you deserve. Here, Milwaukee workers’ comp lawyers provide an overview of the most important things injured workers need to know about the state’s worker’s compensation system.
Wisconsin Workers’ Compensation: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Covered by Workers’ Comp in Wisconsin?
The overwhelming majority of employees are covered by the state’s no-fault workers’ compensation insurance system from their very first day on the job. Nearly 99 percent of workers are covered right away. There are minor exceptions for employers with fewer than three employees — who may wait slightly longer to obtain coverage.
What Steps Should I Take If I Am Hurt on the Job?
If you are injured on the job in Wisconsin, you should take action to protect your health, well-being, and workplace rights by:
- Reporting the accident to your immediate supervisor;
- Seeking medical attention from a doctor of your choosing and attend all follow-up appointments;
- Completing and submitting a workers’ compensation claim; and
- Calling a lawyer if your claim is denied or you have questions about your case.
Which Types of Injuries Are Covered by the Law?
The Wisconsin workers’ compensation insurance system is comprehensive. You are entitled to coverage for any injury or illness that occurs in the course and scope of your employment. In other words, you may be eligible to get benefits for:
- An acute, one-time injury;
- A repetitive stress injury, which develops gradually;
- A pre-existing injury exacerbated by your job;
- An occupational disease.
Can I Choose My Own Doctor?
Yes. According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), injured workers have the right to seek treatment from a doctor who they trust. In an emergency, your employer can arrange to get you immediate help. Though, from there, you have the right to pick your own doctor.
What Benefits are Available Through a Wisconsin Workers’ Comp Claim?
Workers’ comp benefits are no-fault benefits — meaning you are not required to prove your employer did anything ‘wrong’ in order to be eligible for financial support. Depending on the nature of your case, benefits may be available for:
- All reasonable and necessary medical treatment;
- Wage replacement (temporary disability benefits);
- Rehabilitative care and vocational retraining; and
- Permanent disability.
Call Our Wisconsin Work Injury Lawyers for Immediate Help
At Gillick, Wicht, Gillick & Graf, we have been Wisconsin’s trusted workers’ compensation law firm since 1948. If you or your loved one was hurt in the workplace, our lawyers are here to help. To set up a no-cost, no strings attached review of your case, please contact our Milwaukee law office at (415) 257-2667. We represent injured workers throughout the entire region, including in West Allis, Waukesha, Greenfield, South Milwaukee, and Oak Creek.