Teachers in New Hampshire face unique issues and challenges when dealing with injuries at work. It’s wise to consult with a union representative or attorney early on to avoid unwitting errors in worker’s compensation which could result in significant loss down the road.
Worker’s compensation is a critically important benefit that provides numerous protections to employees injured on the job.
Worker’s Compensation is the insurance coverage for lost pay, medical bills and other damages caused by a work injury, but it does so much more. It also provides job protection for up to 18 months for temporary disability (as opposed to only 12 weeks under the FMLA which covers some non work related injuries) if an injury results in time out of work.
Further, while it does not provide compensation for pain and suffering, it does provide for a one time payment for certain injuries which are deemed permanent under the law, a benefit which can make the difference in meeting expenses in the case of a lengthy time out of work.
Even more important for some, a claim that is accepted as work related will entitle an employee to state disability retirement regardless of vesting. It essentially accelerates the vesting as of the date of injury. As vital as this benefit is, it has some loop holes and traps for the unwary which can be treacherous.
