Common questions about workers’ compensation in Minnesota

A workplace injury can threaten your ability to go back to work following an accident for a short period of time or in severe cases, permanently. If you sustain a serious workplace injury, you may also require extensive medical and rehabilitative care. 

Workers’ compensation benefits can ease some of the financial burden when you sustain an injury at work. You must familiarize yourself with the filing process and what these benefits cover to prevent any delays. 

What should you do right after the accident?  

Unless you need emergency assistance, tell your employer or direct supervisor right away about your injury. To initiate the workers’ compensation process, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry states that your employer will need to complete a First Report of Injury form. Make sure the information you give your employer is accurate and complete. 

What injuries does workers’ compensation cover?  

You can receive workers’ compensation benefits for any injury caused, accelerated or aggravated by your employment. For instance, you become eligible for these benefits for occupational diseases, gradual injuries and traumatic injuries. 

Do all employers carry workers’ compensation insurance?  

All employers, with certain exceptions, must provide their employees with workers’ compensation insurance under Minnesota Statutes 176.181, subd. 2. Your employer may choose to obtain a policy through a licensed insurance company or through self-insurance approved by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. 

What benefits are available? 

You can receive workers’ compensation benefits for the wages you miss out on because of your workplace injury and compensation if you lose use of part of your body because of the accident. You can also receive benefits for vocational rehabilitation and training and medical care. 

For medical care, you become eligible for treatment necessary and reasonable to cure or relieve the effect of the injury you sustain. This may include chiropractic, surgical, psychological and hospital treatment in addition to medications.