Personal Injury

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation (often called “workers’ comp”) is an insurance system in Oregon that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job or develop work-related illnesses. It is designed to protect both workers and employers by ensuring injured employees receive medical care and financial support, regardless of fault.

Benefits You May Be Entitled To

1. Medical Care

• Coverage for doctor visits, surgery, hospital stays, prescriptions, and medical equipment.

• Travel reimbursement to your medical appointments.

2. Wage Replacement

• Temporary Disability Benefits: Paid when you can’t work because of your injury.

• Permanent Disability Benefits: Compensation if your injury leaves lasting limitations.

3. Vocational Assistance

• Job training, education, or retraining if you can’t return to your previous work.

4. Death Benefit

• Payments and burial expenses for surviving family members if a work injury results in death.

Who Is Covered?

• Most employees in Oregon are covered from the first day on the job.

• Independent contractors may not qualify, unless proven to be misclassified.

How to File a Claim in Oregon

1. Report the Injury: Tell your employer immediately.

2. Get Medical Care: See a doctor and let them know the injury is work-related.

3. File the Form: Your doctor or employer must submit the official claim form (Form 801 or 827).

4. Wait for a Decision: The insurance company must accept or deny your claim within 60 days.

Why Understanding Your Rights Matters

Insurance companies don’t always make the process easy. Knowing your rights as an injured worker ensures you get the treatment, income support, and resources you deserve while you recover.

Need Help With Your Claim?

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, delayed, or if you feel you aren’t receiving the full benefits, professional guidance can make all the difference.