When you get injured at work, it’s important to know what kinds of compensation you’re entitled to. In Utah, employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance to protect their employees in case they suffer an injury while on the job. Workers’ compensation insurance covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.

Medical Expenses

Under Utah law, employers are responsible for covering your medical expenses if you are injured on the job. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and other medical treatments that are necessary to treat your injury. Your employer must provide a list of approved medical providers, and you must choose a doctor from that list. If your employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance, you may be able to file a lawsuit to recover your medical expenses.

Lost Wages

If you are unable to work due to your work-related injury, you may be entitled to lost wages. Lost wages are typically calculated based on your average weekly wage before your injury. The amount of lost wages you’re entitled to will depend on your specific situation. In general, you will receive 66 2/3% of your average weekly wage up to a maximum amount set by Utah law. If you are permanently disabled, you may receive a larger settlement.

Permanent Disability

If your work-related injury results in permanent disability, you may be entitled to additional compensation. Permanent disability compensation is determined based on the extent of your disability and how it impacts your ability to work. In some cases, you may be entitled to a lump-sum settlement.

Vocational Rehabilitation

If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, you may be entitled to vocational rehabilitation. This program helps workers who are injured on the job train for a new career. Vocational rehabilitation may include job training, education, and job placement services.

Death Benefits

If a worker is killed on the job, the worker’s dependents may be entitled to death benefits. Death benefits include funeral expenses and ongoing financial support for the worker’s dependents.

Filing a Claim

If you’ve been injured on the job, it’s important to report the injury to your employer immediately. Failure to report the injury within a certain amount of time may jeopardize your ability to receive compensation. After reporting your injury, you should file a workers’ compensation claim with the Utah Labor Commission. The deadline to file a claim is generally one year from the date of the injury.

Conclusion

If you’ve been injured on the job in Utah, you are entitled to certain types of compensation. These include medical expenses, lost wages, permanent disability, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits. It’s important to report your injury to your employer immediately and file a workers’ compensation claim with the Utah Labor Commission to ensure that you receive all of the compensation you’re entitled to.