{"id":9058,"date":"2020-12-18T10:31:55","date_gmt":"2020-12-18T10:31:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/diamondlaw.ca\/?p=9058"},"modified":"2022-01-04T15:01:12","modified_gmt":"2022-01-04T15:01:12","slug":"what-is-workmans-compensation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/diamondlaw.ca\/what-is-workmans-compensation\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Workman’s Compensation?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to avoid it, <\/span>accidents happen in the workplace<\/span><\/a>. It\u2019s essential to know your rights so you\u2019ll be compensated fairly. If you\u2019re hurt while working, it can cause several difficulties. From medical bills and other expenses to not driving or being unemployable, you\u2019ll need to know where you can get support.<\/span><\/p>\n

While you\u2019re dealing with the accident\u2019s immediate consequences, we know it can be challenging to get a clear picture of what you should do next. Knowing what you\u2019re entitled to is only the first step. You\u2019ll need to know how to make a claim<\/a>, what is covered, and how the process might affect your rights.<\/span><\/p>\n

To be left in the dark while you\u2019re already experiencing a stressful situation will only make matters worse. That\u2019s why we\u2019ve answered the crucial workers\u2019 compensation questions in this guide. Read on to find out what kind of cover you can get, what injuries it includes, and how to make a claim. We\u2019ll also talk you through your and your employer\u2019s responsibilities so that you know exactly where you stand.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding Workers\u2019 Compensation<\/b><\/h2>\n

Workers’ compensation was first introduced in Ontario in 1915. Other provinces adopted the program in the following years. It’s a publicly sponsored system that was devised to find a compromise that suited employees and employers. It pays financial sums to staff members if they are injured or disabled through their employment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Most employers in Ontario pay into the province-wide system. This workers’ compensation system is a type of insurance. It specifically concerns employees and compensation for <\/span>injuries or disabilities<\/span><\/a> sustained due to their careers. The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) oversees the fund in the province.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Other provinces have their own independent boards. They include the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) Alberta and WorkSafe BC in British Columbia. Some boards, like the WSIB, take a role in accident prevention and benefits and services for employees who are ill or injured.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When an employee claims and accepts workers’ compensation benefits, they waive their right to sue their employer for negligence over the accident.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Types of Expenses Workers\u2019 Compensation Covers<\/b><\/h2>\n

Minor workplace injuries<\/a> that require first aid only and not additional medical attention don\u2019t need to be reported to the WSIB. However, if you need treatment by a doctor or at a hospital, have to take time off work, or your pay is affected, you have a right to claim. Issues like broken glasses or dentures are eligible reasons to request compensation for repair or replacement costs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another type of compensation claim is for loss of income. If you miss work because of an injury or illness, you could be eligible for a payment that covers those wages. You could also receive services to help you return to work. When your situation results in a permanent impairment, you could expect to be paid a permanent outlay following the final settlement of a claim.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Workers\u2019 compensation doesn\u2019t only cover your wages. It can include health-care benefits. These could be medical expenses, such as prescription drugs, treatments or physiotherapy sessions. You might receive rehabilitation expenses for training, medical equipment, clothing and care for day-to-day activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

The WSIB also covers benefits for loss of retirement income if you receive payments for loss of earnings for over a year. You could be eligible for physical disability accommodation and retraining services, too. A survivor benefit is a type of cover given to the dependent or spouse of someone who dies due to a workplace accident<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance<\/b><\/h2>\n

There are several injuries and illnesses covered by workers\u2019 compensation insurance. They include:<\/span><\/p>\n