Workers' compensation insurance is regulated by the state where you do business. Your rights and your employees' workers' compensation benefits may vary depending on your state. To find rules that apply to you and your employees in your state, click here.

Employees who are legitimately injured as a result of their work receive benefits as set by law, regardless of whose fault the injury is.

FACT: Workers' compensation covers two categories of work related injuries and illnesses.

1. Injuries or illnesses (including death) that result from a specific work-related accident; and
2. Injuries or illnesses that occur over a period of time that are directly related to employment. For example, repeated lifting of heavy items at work that causes shoulder strain can be covered.

FACT: Some injuries or conditions may not be covered by workers' compensation.

Injuries or conditions that develop over time can be harder to define. For example, a back strain could result from years of yard work at home, mental stress could result from personal problems that have nothing to do with the job, and a heart attack might date back to prior medical history.

FACT: Workers' compensation covers more than medical bills.

Serious injuries may require hospitalization, the use of medical specialists and longer periods of recuperation, resulting in time off from work. Workers' compensation benefits may include:

• Payment of all appropriate medical costs;
• Payment of a percentage of an employee's pre-injury salary;
• Vocational rehabilitation (as required); and
• Assistance with helping the employee return to work, possibly in a temporary, transitional work assignment or, in a modified or alternative job.