Workplace accidents are unfortunately common, and it's the employer's responsibility to provide a safe working environment. In case of accidents, workers compensation is a system that protects both employers and employees. Workers compensation insurance provides benefits to help with the financial burden caused by workplace injuries or illnesses. Each state has different laws regarding workers compensation. This blog will discuss everything you need to know about workers compensation laws in Missouri.



Workers compensation in Missouri covers most employees, including part-time, full-time, and seasonal employees. However, some individuals are exempted, such as independent contractors, domestic workers, and farmworkers. Missouri requires every employer with five or more employees to have workers compensation insurance. However, construction companies are required to have workers compensation insurance regardless of the number of employees. If you work for a company with less than five employees that do not have workers compensation insurance, you might still be covered by the Missouri Second Injury Fund.

Workers' compensation in Missouri provides benefits that help the injured employee with medical expenses, lost wages, and any long-term effects caused by the accident. Medical expenses covered by workers compensation insurance includes surgeries, doctor's office visits, and medication. Workers compensation insurance also provides lost wage benefits, including temporary total, permanent total, or partial disability payments. If an employee dies as a result of a work-related accident or illness, workers compensation insurance will provide death benefits to the surviving family.

In Missouri, an injured employee must report the injury to their employer within thirty days of the accident. The employer will provide the necessary paperwork to file a workers compensation claim. The injured employee must complete all the paperwork and submit it to the workers compensation division. Before submitting the claim, the employee must also inform their physician that the injury is work-related. An attorney's guidance is crucial when filing for a workers compensation claim to ensure that all the legal procedures are followed.

Disputes may arise from a denied claim or disagreement regarding the benefits received. The injured employee may request a hearing to resolve any disputes. If either party disagrees with the hearing's decision, an appeal can be made to the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission.

Workers compensation laws in Missouri are essential to protect both the employer and the employee. As an employee, it's crucial to understand your rights and the benefits provided by workers compensation insurance. If you have been injured in a workplace accident, it's essential to report the accident to your employer as soon as possible and seek legal help. At the same time, employers should ensure that their workplaces are safe and that workers compensation insurance is in place. Understanding workers compensation laws in Missouri can prevent legal battles and financial burdens caused by workplace injuries.