When a worker is injured on the job in Tennessee, they typically have a right to seek workers’ compensation benefits from their employer. This may may soon change if lawmakers decide to reform our state’s workers’ compensation policies during an upcoming legislative session.
The Nashville workers’ compensation attorneys at Ponce Law explain that lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow employers to opt out of purchasing workers’ compensation insurance coverage as long as they can cover those costs themselves. Those in favor of the change say it will save businesses money and allow workers to receive faster care and compensation in the event they are injured. Those against the changes explain these reforms could have a seriously detrimental effect on injured workers in The Volunteer State.
Business Journal recently reported on a study on the effectiveness of opt-out laws for employers and found numerous cases where injured workers didn’t receive the care they needed. Researchers found inconsistent coverage for workers who suffered similar injuries, apprehensions about how costs of injuries are covered, as well as the limitations such laws can create on medical coverage for injured workers.
With the changes to Tennessee’s workers’ compensation laws that are being considered, Ponce Law believes it’s more important than ever before to learn your rights and what types of workers’ compensation claims can be made if you are injured on the job. Having access to this information can help determine if you qualify for benefits following a work-related injury.