Indiana Workers’ Compensation Overview

If you’ve been injured at work in Indiana, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and long-term disability. However, getting through the workers’ comp claims process in Indiana can be difficult, especially when employers or insurance companies dispute your rights.

At Edwin L. Gagnon, Attorney at Law, our attorney brings over 40 years of aggressive, client-focused representation to injured workers across the state. We fight for maximum benefits that workers’ comp in Indiana allows, and we don’t back down from complex cases or employer resistance.

Our Indianapolis-based firm is built on trust, dedication and results. With a statewide practice and a personal interest in every case, we help clients secure fair settlements and protect their workers’ rights in Indiana.

What Is Workers’ Compensation, And Who Qualifies?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In Indiana, nearly all employers are required to carry workers’ comp insurance. As an employee, you’re covered from your first day on the job – whether you’re full-time, part-time, seasonal or temporary.

To qualify for workers’ comp benefits, your injury must occur in the course and scope of employment. This includes sudden accidents, repetitive stress injuries and occupational illnesses. Common examples include:

• Repetitive stress injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel, tendonitis)
• Slip-and-fall accidents
• Machinery-related injuries
• Overexertion and lifting injuries
• Exposure to harmful substances
• Back and neck injuries
• Shoulder injuries
• Injuries from construction site accidents

Independent contractors, volunteers and some agricultural workers may be excluded. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, we offer free consultations to help clarify your rights.

Types Of Workers’ Comp Benefits In Indiana

Indiana law provides several types of workers’ comp benefits:

• Medical bills: Covers all necessary treatment, including surgery, rehab and prescriptions
• Lost wages: If you’re unable to work for more than seven days, you may receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage
• Permanent disability: Includes permanent partial impairment (PPI) and permanent total disability (PTD), based on your condition and ability to work
• Vocational rehabilitation: Available if you need help returning to suitable employment

We can help you claim the maximum benefits available to you – without delay or denial.

Filing A Workers’ Comp Claim In Indiana

Here’s how the workers’ comp claims process in Indiana typically works:

1. Report the injury to your employer within 30 days.
2. Once notified of your injury, your employer is required to submit a First Report of Injury to the Indiana Workers’ Compensation Board within seven days.
3. You’ll be directed to an employer-approved physician for treatment.
4. If your claim is denied or delayed, Indiana offers an informal resolution process. You may also file an official Application for Adjustment of Claim within two years of the injury or last compensation payment.

We help clients with every step of the workers’ comp claims process in Indiana. We will make sure that deadlines are met and evidence is properly documented.

What If Your Claim Is Denied Or Disputed?

Appealing workers’ comp decision in Indiana may be necessary if:

• Your employer disputes the cause of injury.
• You’re alleged to have a preexisting condition that disqualifies you for benefits.
• Benefits are delayed or terminated prematurely.
• You’re facing employee retaliation for filing a workers’ comp claim in Indiana.

We aggressively challenge denials and represent clients before the Indiana Workers’ Compensation Board. Our goal is to secure fair settlements for workers’ comp claims across Indiana.

Workers’ comp is complicated. Get answers to common questions about the process.

Let’s Fight For The Benefits You Deserve

After a work accident or injury, don’t let delays, denials or employer pressure keep you from the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact our workplace injury lawyer in Indiana for the experienced representation you deserve. For a free case review, call us at 317-593-4607 or reach out online.