What You Need to Know About Workers’ Compensation in Kentucky
Workplace injuries can turn your life upside down in a heartbeat. Suddenly, you’re juggling doctor visits, bills, and questions about your job security. Here’s what you need to know, from filing a claim to dealing with workers' comp surveillance after settlement. Learn more about workers’ compensation from a personal injury lawyer—and knowing how to protect your rights—it will make all the difference.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a safety net for employees who get hurt or sick because of their jobs.
Kentucky’s Workers’ Compensation Act, in place since 1916, ensures that if you’re injured at work or develop an occupational disease, you’re entitled to medical care and monetary benefits. The system is designed as a compromise: you get help with your medical bills and lost wages, and in return, your employer’s liability is limited.
Who’s Covered Under Kentucky Workers’ Compensation?
Most employees in Kentucky are covered, including minors, state and city workers, volunteer firefighters, and even those who deliver newspapers. However, there are exceptions. Agricultural workers, domestic workers in small households, and some religious organization employees may not be covered. If you’re unsure, your personal injury lawyer can help clarify your eligibility.
What Should You Do After a Workplace Injury?
Act quickly and follow these steps to protect your claim:
- Notify your employer in writing as soon as possible. Include the date, time, how the injury happened, and what injuries you sustained.
- Seek medical attention right away and follow your doctor’s instructions.
- Keep records of everything—accident reports, medical bills, and correspondence.
- File a formal workers’ comp claim with the state. You have two years from the date of the accident or discovery of your illness to file, but sooner is always better.
Your employer is responsible for providing paperwork and filing the claim with their insurer. Both you and your employer must comply with Kentucky law for the process to move smoothly.
What Benefits Can You Receive?
Kentucky workers’ compensation can provide:
- Payment for medical treatment.
- Temporary or permanent disability benefits if you can’t work.
- Compensation for lost wages.
- Vocational rehabilitation in some cases.
The amount and duration of benefits depend on the severity of your injury and how it affects your ability to work.
How Are Claims Reviewed and Decided?
Once you file, your claim is reviewed by the Kentucky Department of Workers’ Claims. If there’s a dispute—maybe the insurer denies your claim or you disagree with the benefits offered—you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ will decide your case within sixty days of the hearing. If you disagree with the ALJ’s decision, you can appeal to the Workers’ Compensation Board, then to the Kentucky Court of Appeals, and finally to the Supreme Court of Kentucky if needed.
What About Workers’ Comp Surveillance After Settlement?
Here’s where things get interesting—and sometimes uncomfortable. Insurance companies often use private investigators to monitor claimants. The state itself generally does not spend resources on surveillance. The goal? To make sure your reported injuries match your real-life activities.
How Long Does Surveillance Last?
There’s no set timeline. Surveillance can last days, weeks, or even months, depending on the complexity of your case and what the investigators observe. Spring and summer often see more surveillance, as people are outside and more visible.
Is Surveillance Legal?
Yes, insurance companies in Kentucky can legally follow you and record your activities in public places. Their aim is to prevent fraud and ensure benefits go to those who truly need them.
Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Navigating Kentucky’s workers’ compensation system can be tricky, especially if your claim is denied or you’re under surveillance. At the Law Offices of Nathan D. Williams we can:
- Help you file a strong claim, particularly when a third party is involved or when a claim is denied or faced with challenges
- Gather medical evidence and witness statements
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Represent you at hearings and appeals
- Advise you on how to handle surveillance
We’re Your Personal Injury Lawyer Near Campbellsville, Kentucky
At Nathan D. Williams Attorney at Law, we can help you with questions you may have about filing your workers’ comp claim, and all the steps that may be needed along the way, like gathering medical evidence, witness statements, negotiating with insurance companies, representing you at hearing and appeals, and advising you on how to handle surveillance best.
Our legal team is prepared to advocate for your best interests and protect your rights should you be injured in a motorcycle accident. We are committed to helping you and your family achieve the best possible outcome. Don't hesitate to risk missing out on what you rightfully deserve. Send us a message or call us at (270) 789-0088 today for a free consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about personal injury legal topics. It is not legal advice. Readers seek professional counsel like that from our team at Nathan D. Williams, Attorney at Law before acting on their case without representation.
