If you are injured on the job in Louisiana, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are designed to help injured workers receive medical care and partial wage replacement while they recover. However, many workers are unsure what benefits are actually available, how long they last, or what happens if the insurance company disputes the claim.
Understanding the types of workers’ compensation benefits available under Louisiana law can help you protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes after a work-related injury.
One of the most important benefits available through Louisiana workers’ compensation is medical treatment. If you are injured at work or develop an occupational illness, workers’ compensation should cover all reasonable and necessary medical care related to the injury.
Medical benefits may include doctor visits, hospital care, surgery, physical therapy, diagnostic testing, prescription medications, and medical equipment. In some cases, mileage reimbursement for travel to and from medical appointments may also be available.
Louisiana law allows injured workers some choice when it comes to medical providers, although there are rules about selecting and changing doctors. Disputes often arise when insurance companies challenge the necessity of treatment or attempt to limit care, which can delay recovery.
When a work injury prevents you from earning your normal wages, workers’ compensation may provide wage replacement benefits. These payments are meant to help cover lost income while you are unable to work or while you are working with restrictions.
Louisiana workers’ compensation does not replace your full paycheck. Instead, benefits are typically based on a percentage of your average weekly wage, subject to state maximums. The exact amount depends on the type of disability and your ability to return to work.
Wage benefits generally fall into several categories, each with different rules and durations.
Temporary total disability benefits are available when an injured worker is completely unable to work for a period of time due to a work-related injury. These benefits are paid while the worker is recovering and has not yet reached maximum medical improvement.
Temporary total disability benefits typically continue until the worker is able to return to work, even in a limited capacity, or until a doctor determines that the condition has stabilized. Insurance companies may dispute whether a worker is truly unable to work, leading to benefit interruptions.
Temporary partial disability benefits apply when an injured worker can return to work but earns less than they did before the injury. This often happens when a worker is placed on light duty or has reduced hours due to medical restrictions.
These benefits help make up part of the difference between pre-injury wages and post-injury earnings. Disagreements frequently arise over whether the offered job is appropriate or whether the wage calculation is accurate.
Some work injuries result in lasting impairment. When an injury causes permanent limitations, an injured worker may be entitled to permanent disability benefits under Louisiana law.
Permanent disability benefits are typically divided into categories based on the severity of the impairment. In some cases, a worker may receive benefits for a permanent partial disability, while more serious injuries may qualify for permanent total disability benefits.
The classification of a disability and the percentage assigned can significantly affect the value of a claim. Insurance companies often rely on medical evaluations to minimize disability ratings, which can reduce benefits.
Supplemental earnings benefits may be available when an injured worker cannot earn at least 90 percent of their pre-injury wages due to a work-related injury. These benefits are designed to assist workers who can work but remain financially impacted by their injury.
Supplemental earnings benefits can be complex, and eligibility depends on medical restrictions, job availability, and wage calculations. Employers and insurers frequently challenge these claims, arguing that suitable employment is available.
When a worker cannot return to their previous job due to permanent restrictions, Louisiana workers’ compensation may provide vocational rehabilitation services. These services are intended to help injured workers re-enter the workforce in a new role.
Vocational rehabilitation may include job placement assistance, training, or education aimed at helping the worker find suitable employment within their limitations. Disputes can arise over whether rehabilitation is necessary or whether the proposed plan is appropriate.
When a work-related injury or illness results in death, surviving family members may be entitled to workers’ compensation death benefits. These benefits are intended to provide financial support to dependents, such as spouses and children.
Death benefits may include weekly payments and coverage for funeral expenses. Determining dependency and benefit amounts can be complicated, especially when multiple family members are involved.
While Louisiana workers’ compensation is designed to protect injured workers, many claims are delayed, denied, or underpaid. Insurance companies may question whether an injury is work-related, dispute medical treatment, or argue that a worker can return to work sooner than recommended.
Common issues include delayed payments, termination of benefits without warning, denial of specific treatments, and pressure to return to work before recovery is complete. These challenges can place injured workers in difficult financial and medical situations.
Workers’ compensation benefits are often the only source of income and medical coverage for injured workers. Not knowing what benefits are available can lead to missed opportunities, unpaid bills, and unnecessary stress.
Each type of benefit has specific requirements, deadlines, and documentation rules. Mistakes or delays can result in lost benefits that may be difficult to recover later.
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, especially while dealing with pain, medical treatment, and lost income. Disputes with insurance companies are common, and the system can be difficult to manage without guidance.
Sarphie Law represents injured workers in Metairie and throughout Louisiana in state workers’ compensation matters. If you were injured on the job and have questions about what benefits you may be entitled to receive, understanding your rights early can help protect your health, your income, and your future.
