In Massachusetts, the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) oversees the state workers’ compensation system. Following an on-the-job injury, there are two main benefits available to the injured employee. Medical benefits pay for any necessary treatments — including surgery, medication, and rehabilitation — while weekly monetary benefits compensate the employee for any lost income. Temporary disability benefits are paid out weekly at 60% of the employee’s average weekly wage for a maximum of three years. Permanent disability benefits are paid out for the remainder of the employee’s life at 2/3 of their average weekly wage.

Workers’ compensation goes into effect when a work-related injury prevents an employee from being able to work for 5 or more calendar days. Once the fifth day of work has been missed, the employer has 7 business days to report the injury to their insurance company. The insurance company then has 14 calendar days to start paying benefits or contest the claim.

The workers’ compensation system in Massachusetts is supposed to be fairly straightforward, but there are all sorts of variables that can quickly complicate the equation, especially for individuals without experience with workers’ compensation law.

If you have been injured on the job, you may be asking the following questions:

• What if my employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance?
• What if I was injured on an out-of-state job?
• What if I work two different jobs?
• What if the insurance company is late with my benefits?

For answers to all these questions and more, contact Brooks Law. We strongly recommend you work with a Massachusetts workers’ compensation lawyer who understands the complicated legal system. Brooks Law Firm can handle claims throughout Massachusetts, and we pride ourselves on our unmatched client service. We are only satisfied when our clients are satisfied!