Workers compensation study finds that few who get hurt receive proper or sufficient money in work comp for their injuries and fewer receive anything at all. In a recent report issued March 4th the Labor Department notes that work place injuries and illnesses, coupled with an inadequate workers' compensation systems are contributing to the gap between rich and poor in the U.S. Workers who suffer a serious work injury earn an approximate 15 percent less annually on average.
In "Adding Inequality to Injury: The Costs of Failing to Protect Workers on the Job" the Labor Department finds that states laws, such as Pennsylvania workers compensation, and court rulings have made it harder for injured workers to recoup money, with workers compensation now covering only an estimated 21 percent of lost wages and medical bills due to a work injury or illness.
While roughly 4 million work injuries are reported each year the Labor Department report notes that less than 40 percent of workers who are eligible to apply for workers compensation following an injury actually apply for it.
Changes in the work force also have made injuries on the job more likely. There is a prevalence of temp workers in warehousing and manufacturing and independent contractors in construction industry.
When workers are misclassified as self employed independent contractors companies avoid large liabilities that would typically come with a work injury and workers compensation. Thus less motivation to ensure a safe workplace.
Clearly so few workers receive the fair amount of workers' compensation they deserve. Even fewer still know their rights. If you or a loved one is injured on the job contact the lawyers at Dugan & Associates, Lawyers Representing Injured People 1-888-99-D-U-G-A-N; 1-888-993-8426. We know the workers' compensation system and we are here to help.
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