Workers’ compensation is an essential benefit that provides financial assistance to workers who are injured or become ill while on the job. The benefits provided by workers’ compensation can help cover the costs of medical treatment, lost wages, and other expenses related to the injury or illness. However, workers’ compensation claims are subject to certain rules and regulations, including the Workers Compensation 90 Day Rule. The 90-day rule is a provision that requires workers to report their injuries or illnesses to their employer within 90 days of the incident in order to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
In this article, we will explore the 90-day rule in more detail, including what it is, how it works, and why it is important for workers and employers to understand.
What is workers compensation the 90-day rule?
The 90-day rule is a provision of workers’ compensation law that requires workers to report their injuries or illnesses to their employer within 90 days of the incident in order to be eligible for benefits. This means that workers must notify their employer within 90 days of the injury or illness, either orally or in writing, and provide information about the incident and their medical condition.
The 90-day rule applies to all types of workplace injuries and illnesses, including those that occur suddenly and those that develop over time.
Workplace Injuries and illnesses
Slip and fall accidents
Repetitive strain injuries
Exposure to hazardous materials
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Back and neck injuries
Occupational diseases
It is important to note that the 90-day rule is not a time limit for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Workers may still file a claim after the 90-day period has passed, but they may not be eligible for benefits if they do not report the injury or illness within the 90-day timeframe.
How does the workers compensation 90-day rule work?
The 90-day rule requires workers to report their injuries or illnesses to their employer as soon as possible after they occur. In some cases, workers may be able to report their injury or illness to a supervisor or manager on the same day it occurs. In other cases, such as injuries that develop over time, workers may not realize they have a work-related injury or illness until later.
Once a worker reports an injury or illness to their employer, the employer is required to file a report with the workers’ compensation board or insurance carrier within a certain timeframe, typically within 10 days of receiving notice of the injury or illness. The employer is also required to provide the injured worker with information about their rights and responsibilities under workers’ compensation law.
If a worker does not report their injury or illness within the 90-day timeframe, they may be ineligible for workers’ compensation benefits. For example, if a worker can demonstrate that they were unable to report the injury or illness within the 90-day period due to a physical or mental disability, they may be eligible for benefits.
Why is the 90-day rule important?
The 90-day rule is an important aspect of workers’ compensation law because it helps ensure that injured workers receive the medical care and financial assistance they need in a timely manner. By requiring workers to report their injuries or illnesses within 90 days, the rule helps ensure that workers are not left without support while they recover from their injuries or illnesses.
In addition, the 90-day rule helps employers by providing a clear timeframe for when workers must report injuries or illnesses. This can help employers manage their workers’ compensation claims more effectively and reduce the risk of fraudulent claims.
However, it is important for both workers and employers to understand the 90-day rule and their responsibilities under workers’ compensation law. Workers who fail to report their injuries or illnesses within the 90-day.
