The Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Act ensures that if you sustain an injury at your workplace, you’re eligible for benefits to compensate you for medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses related to your injury. However, individuals are often unaware of how these benefits work, resulting in confusion and decreased compensation. In this article, we’ll outline everything you need to know about Mississippi workers’ compensation laws to ensure that you’re equipped to understand your benefits.
Table of Contents
What is Mississippi Workers’ Compensation?
Mississippi Workers’ Compensation is a benefits program designed to help employees who have been injured or developed a work-related illness. The program is designed to provide compensation and medical coverage for injuries or illnesses that occur on the job.
Who is Covered by Mississippi Workers’ Compensation?
Almost all employees in Mississippi are covered by workers’ compensation laws. This includes both part-time and full-time employees, as well as non-profit and for-profit organizations. However, independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation, nor are employees who are self-employed.
Types of Benefits Available
Employees who have suffered an injury in the workplace can receive a range of benefits based on the severity of their injury. These benefits include:
Medical Treatment
Workers’ compensation benefits cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses required to treat your injuries. The employer chooses your treating physician(s) and all related medical tests.
Temporary Disability Benefits
If you’re unable to work while you’re recovering from your injury, you’ll be eligible for temporary disability benefits, which are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage up to a maximum amount determined by law. These benefits can last for up to 450 weeks.
Permanent Disability Benefits
If your workplace injury has resulted in a permanent disability, you may be eligible to receive permanent disability benefits. The amount of these benefits depends on the severity of your injury, the body part(s) affected, and your average weekly wage before the injury.
Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits
If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous role, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation benefits. These benefits may cover job training, counseling, and skills assessment, among other things.
Death Benefits
If an employee dies as a result of a workplace injury or illness, their dependents are eligible to receive death benefits. The maximum weekly benefit is two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage, and the total amount paid out cannot exceed $450,000.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you’ve suffered an injury or developed an illness related to your work, you must report your injury to your employer immediately. Your employer must then provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form to fill out.
Once you’ve completed the claim form, your employer has 10 days to report your injury to the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission. The Commission will then review your claim and make a decision on your benefits.
Known Exclusions to Coverage
While most employees in Mississippi are covered under workers’ compensation, there are some notable exclusions to the program. These include:
Independent Contractors
If you’re an independent contractor, you’re not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Contractors are responsible for their insurance policies.
Self-Employed Individuals
If you’re self-employed, you’re not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, you may choose to purchase your policy.
Employees Working from Home
Employees who are working from home are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits unless their job requires them to work from home.
Injuries Caused by Alcohol or Drugs
If your injury was the result of alcohol or drug use, Mississippi workers’ compensation laws may not cover treatment or lost wages.
Hiring a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
While many workers’ compensation claims are straightforward, some can be complicated and difficult to navigate. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or what steps to take next, it may be time to hire a workers’ compensation attorney.
A workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to. They will also be able to guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you meet all deadlines and requirements.
Conclusion
Mississippi Workers’ Compensation laws are designed to ensure that employees are protected in case of workplace injury or illness. Understanding your eligibility and the benefits available to you is the first step in making a successful claim. If you’re unsure of your rights or believe that you’re not receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to, be sure to speak with a workers’ compensation attorney. With the right advice, you can protect yourself and receive the benefits you need to get back on your feet.