ART PODCAST| Episode 8: Worker's Comp

Today’s edition of the Accident Recovery Team podcast kicks off a new series of discussions about worker’s compensation law in the State of Kansas. Todd King and Gary Albin, partners in the Accident Recovery Team will discuss the current state of law as of 2020. Prior to the establishment of a worker's compensation statute, work related injuries were treated like any other injury. However, small employer’s could suffer business ending claims and conversely, injured workers could be easily ignored by large companies that controlled the accident environment. In 1911, Kansas became one of the first state to establish a workers compensation statute, that minimized the burden of proof and fault, but also established caps or limits to recover. The statute mandated employer covered insurance for workers. The Kansas Workers Compensation Act is a state statute and as such is subject to legislative change and political influence. The fluidity of the system makes it even more important to involve an attorney that is current as to the status of the law. After an on the job injury, it is critical for the injured worker to take the steps to document, initiate, and protect their rights. Immediate notice to a supervisor and completion of an accident report only the beginning. There are strict time limitations and deadlines, which if not satisfied, could destroy the workers claim forever. If injured at work, one should immediately contact an attorney to understand all the deadlines and action that must be taken. This episode will discuss the basic aspects of Kansas Workers Compensation law from jurisdiction, payroll requirements, exceptions and exclusions, and what accidents are deemed to arise out of and in the course of one’s employment. Future episodes will discuss medical treatment, damages, lost wages, caps and limitations, litigation and settlement procedures, post award rights and the overlap of social security, short disability, Family Medical Leave Act and more. Don’t let your employer, or their insurance company, tell you what your rights are. They do not have your best interest in mind. Reach out directly to Todd or Gary at the Accident Recovery Team for more information. With decades of experience and continuing education on this topic, you can count on them after an injury at work. The consultation is always free and you pay nothing until we win.