Who is Covered by Worker’s Compensation Benefits in Mississippi?

Mississippi Work-Related Injuries and Workers’ Compensation Benefits Coverage

If you are injured on the job in Mississippi, it is critical that you understand its workers’ compensation system. Depending on the circumstances, workers’ compensation (sometimes known as “workman’s compensation”) may be your sole option for financial compensation in the event of a work-related injury. The implication is that you cannot file a civil lawsuit against your employer. You must instead file a claim with Mississippi’s workers’ compensation agency. The majority of employers are obligated to contribute to the workers’ compensation system by obtaining insurance through the state’s workers’ compensation fund.

Workers compensation benefits coverage covers physical injuries, occupational diseases, and certain psychological and stress-related ailments. As long as they are work-related, these injuries or illnesses can happen anytime.

Do you have a work-related injury? Mississippi has a “no-fault” workers’ compensation system. Therefore, if you get ill or injured because of your job, your employer or their insurance provider cannot deny your workers’ compensation claim on the sole ground that you were at fault.

You may be eligible for a wide range of benefits, including 

• Money that is due to you while you are unable to work
• Medical treatment and care for your job injury
• A doctor of your choosing
• Travel costs associated with a work-related injury will be reimbursed
• Fair compensation for your claim

If you’re filing a workers’ compensation claim in Mississippi, our Jackson, MS personal injury lawyer and workers’ compensation attorney can provide you with legal support and representation to help you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

We also help people in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, and elsewhere in Mississippi file for bankruptcy and disability benefits. Call us right now to set up a meeting!

Who is Covered by Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Mississippi?

According to The Mississippi Bar, most employees in the state should have workers’ compensation insurance coverage. If a company in the state of Mississippi has more than five employees – full-time, part-time, or seasonal workers, they are required by law to pay coverage for their workers. Many employers with less than five employees provide coverage as well, even though it is not required.

Workers’ compensation benefits are not available to oil workers, seamen, and others who operate on the open water, although they do have rights under the Jones Act and other maritime regulations.

How Does Mississippi Handle Wage Loss Benefits Following Workplace Accidents?

When an employee is hurt at work and is unable to return to work immediately due to their injuries, they might need to submit a workers’ compensation claim in order to get wage loss benefits. A worker who is ill or injured should get around two-thirds of their usual weekly salary, up to the current limit, according to the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission.

The claim is often started as a temporary disability, with compensation continuing while the worker gets treatment for their accident or ailment. The worker may subsequently return to part-time employment and continue to collect benefits.

Once the worker has reached their maximal medical improvement, they may either return to their old job or get permanent disability payments if they are unable to do so. Those who have permanent injuries may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits or some other program.

When Do Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits Begin?

If you are injured at work in Mississippi, your coverage begins the moment you start working for your employer. There is no waiting time or required minimum earnings.

Workers’ Compensation Claims Process in Mississippi: What Should You Do if You are Injured at Work?

Notifying your employer about your accident and your injuries is the first step to receiving wage loss benefits under workers’ compensation. You should send this notice as quickly as possible in accordance with any guidelines written in your employee handbook or similar document.

Your employer should fill out the necessary documents and report your injuries to the authorities handling your claim. However, businesses do not always complete this stage. They may claim that your injuries were not sustained at work, that you were at fault and hence not eligible for benefits, or that you never informed their insurance about your injuries.

Even if your employer complies with the rules, there may still be problems getting approved and getting benefits. For example, your claim might be denied, your wage-loss benefits miscalculated, or other issues. Reach out to The Rollins Law Firm immediately to get help and answers to your questions concerning workers’ compensation benefits coverage.

What Happens If Someone Dies at Work?

If the death occurred at work, Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Laws mandate that any surviving spouse, as well as certain surviving dependents, get Workers’ Compensation Benefits.  These compensation payments are given every 14 days at the very least.

The benefits are capped at a weekly maximum amount decided by the State Legislature and are equivalent to a percent of the average weekly salary of the deceased employees.

In addition, the insurance company needs to pay up to $2,000.00 for funeral costs and promptly give the surviving spouse $250.00.

Is There a Deductible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Fortunately, no injured employee is required to pay a deductible before receiving any benefits.

The employer, on the other hand, may be required to pay a deductible, but this doesn’t apply to you since all workers’ compensation benefits are given at no cost to injured employees.

What Happens If My Claim Is Denied?

If you have a problem with your claim, you should try to resolve it with your employer or insurance provider first, and then with the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission. If the commission turns down your claim, you may get in touch with an attorney to help you in preparing and filing an appeal in your county’s circuit court within the 30-day time limit.

Find Out More About Workers’ Compensation in Mississippi: Speak with a Lawyer

Workers’ compensation claims are laden with stringent rules and tight deadlines, yet they can be important for the healing process after a work injury. Understanding workers compensation can be difficult, which is why you need to hire a knowledgeable Jackson, MS workers compensation attorney. Speak with our experienced personal injury attorney at The Rollins Law Firm now! We are knowledgeable about Mississippi workers’ compensation laws to learn more about these requirements and the strength of your claim.