A workplace injury can result in significant disability that impacts your quality of life and limits your ability to function. A workers’ compensation claim can provide financial coverage for medical bills and lost wages associated with the accident or illness.
Explore the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim in Louisiana.
Report your injury
You must tell your employer in writing about your illness or injury within 10 days. This clock starts ticking either on the day the injury occurs or the day you learn that an existing illness or injury is work-related. The employer must then submit a report to the insurance company for coverage. If you receive a claim denial from the insurance company, you can request independent review and/or mediation from the state Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration.
Seek medical care
After your claim receives approval, you can select one doctor in each required specialty field for treatment. The employer’s insurance policy will reimburse you for treatment as well as for the reasonable travel costs associated with your medical care. You must receive reimbursement within 30 days of providing your employer or the insurance adjuster with an itemized list of costs. Costs exceeding $750 must have preapproval from the insurance company.
Calculate disability benefits
You can receive temporary total disability benefits after seven days out of work. Permanent total disability benefits are available when you can no longer work because of your injury. TTD benefits equal approximately 66.66% of your average weekly pay. Although your employer does not have to hold your job indefinitely, they cannot fire you simply for filing a workers’ comp claim. If you can no longer perform your previous duties, you may be eligible for vocational funding.
Most full-time, part-time and seasonal employees in Louisiana receive coverage for workers’ compensation through their employers’ insurance policies. You can report your employer to the Office of Workers’ Compensation Administration Fraud & Compliance Department if you suspect that the company does not have a valid workers’ comp policy.
