What Does Workers Compensation Cover in New Hampshire?

You have probably heard of Workers’ Compensation or, more commonly known as workers’ comp. You may not, however, be familiar with what workers’ compensation covers or how it can benefit you in the event of a work-related injury. According to the Department of Labor, workers’ compensation is a type of accident insurance paid for by employers. Workers’ compensation insurance protects any employee who is injured while working or acquires some other type of work-related illness. Workers’ Compensation laws may vary by state, and can sometimes be confusing to navigate, so it is important to know your rights as an employee in the state of New Hampshire. 

What is Covered by Workers’ Compensation in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, though most injuries are eligible for some type of workers’ compensation benefit, the exact benefits can vary depending upon the severity of your injury and the circumstances surrounding your case. The most common types of benefits paid to injured employees include the following: 

• Weekly Compensation: Employees who are injured at work and are not able to return to work for more than 3 days are eligible for weekly compensation benefits. Weekly compensation paid to injured employees is based on 60% of your average weekly wage. To determine your average weekly wage, gross wages are added together for up to 52 weeks prior to your injury, then divided by the number of weeks. Your doctor must sign a form stating you are able to return to work before you can do so. 
• Payment of Medical Bills: Workers’ compensation claims in New Hampshire typically pay for or reimburses the employee for all medical bills, hospital stays, remedial care, and prescriptions required due to injury. 
• Temporary Alternative Duty: Employees who are approved by their doctor for light duty, but are still unable to complete their typical job duties are eligible for temporary alternative duty. Alternative Duty is an alternative job that is safer or less strenuous than the employee’s original job. Your doctor must review the job and give approval that you are able to safely complete the tasks required. 

Depending on your case, there are several other workers’ compensation benefits that you may be eligible for including temporary partial disability, permanent impairment awards, and vocational rehabilitation. 

Do I Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer? 

In order to claim any of the benefits provided by workers’ compensation insurance, you are required to notify your employer of the injury, seek medical attention, and file an insurance claim. The process can be long and complicated, and in some cases, insurance companies can deny your workers’ compensation claim. The laws are ever-changing and can be complicated. Insurance companies assume that you are unaware of your rights, and hope that you’ll settle for less than you are entitled to. Seufert Law will ensure that you are well equipped to take on a workers’ compensation claim and defend your rights to compensation after being injured on the job. Schedule a consultation to get started working with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer who has your best interests at heart.