Workers’ compensation is a system created by your state legislature to provide for injured workers. Prior to the creation of a workers’ compensation system, injured workers often had no remedy or benefits to sustain them when they were unable to work and earn. In limited cases, prior to the creation of the workers’ compensation system, injured workers’ only remedy might be to sue their employer and prove that the employer was somehow negligent or at fault for the injuries.
As a result of the workers’ compensation system, however, workers no longer have to sue their employers, or prove fault, on account of their injuries. Rather, injured workers may receive benefits paid by insurance that must be carried by their employer. These benefits can include partial weekly wage replacement while you are hurt and out of work, medical treatment, and other payments.