The best social security disability lawyers discuss all of the options with their clients, which is why the issue of workers compensation and disability benefits is a common subject that comes up when people are seeking legal advice about workplace injuries.
Disability benefits can come from private coverage as well as through government employment. Employees can sign up for short term disability, which will provide them with a specific percentage of their previous income. This coverage only lasts for a limited period of time, often 180 days or less. Short term disability plans often exclude coverage for a disability resulting from an on the job injury.
Long term disability coverage is similar, but it generally kicks in when sick leave and short term disability benefits have both been exhausted. It can last for a much longer time frame, assisting in situations involving a major illness or injury, or a conditional that worsens over time. Most of these plans do not exclude coverage for on the job injuries.
How does this factor into the average employees’ decision making regarding workplace injuries? Many people seek legal advice about this subject because they are unsure of whether or not disability benefits are worth it. Lots of people rely on workers compensation alone, but that may not be the best idea.
Workers compensation benefits will cover your lost wages and medical bills, but may not cover a very large portion of your salary, especially for higher income wage earners. Social security disability benefits can increase that income, but wait lists are long and the requirements under social security are very stringent, often more so than a private disability benefits plan (especially during the first 30 months of disability).
If you rely on your job to pay the bills, as most people do, it may be beneficial to file for both workers compensation and long term disability benefits. In most cases you need to have that coverage before an injury takes place, so check your coverage.
The best social security disability lawyers will discuss these issues, and other legal advice with you, when you need it. It is a good idea to make sure you fully understand what could happen if you get injured or become disabled on the job, so talk to a lawyer about your personal coverage and your options.
