Obtaining the Workers' Compensation benefits you need

Being injured on the job is often an unexpected event. This type of incident not only catches a worker off guard, but it could also cause the injured worker to miss a huge chunk of work while recovering from the injury. This could make it difficult to cover medical expenses and even pay the bills while experiencing lost wages. In these matters, applying for workers' compensation benefits can make a world of a difference for New York residents.With regards to injured federal employees, the Department of Labor established the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs. The OWCP administers four major disability compensation programs that are designed to provide federal workers, as well as their dependents, benefits when they are injured at the workplace or acquire an occupational disease.These benefits include wage replacement benefits, medical treatment, vocational rehabilitation as well as other benefits. Additionally, there are specific programs that benefit particular workers. This includes Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program, Federal Employees' Compensation Program, Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Program, and Black Lung Benefits Program. These programs provide specific employees with coverage under relevant statutes and regulations that help mitigate the financial burdens caused by a workplace injury.The Department of Labor is aware of how impactful a workplace injury can be on a person and their loved ones. Thus, employees are afforded certain rights under workers' comp. In order to protect your rights and obtain the benefits afforded to you, it is important to take the time to fully understand your situation and the options that may be available.Source: Dol.gov, "Workers' Compensation," accessed March 11, 2017