If you’ve been hurt at work in Nebraska, it’s important to understand your rights under the state’s workers’ compensation system. Nebraska law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to provide medical and wage benefits to injured employees. This no-fault system is meant to help workers recover while limiting legal disputes.
Who Is Covered?
In Nebraska, nearly every employee is covered under workers’ compensation. Employers with one or more employees are required to provide insurance, including most private companies and public entities.
However, exceptions include:
- Independent contractors (if properly classified)
- Certain agricultural workers
- Domestic servants
- Volunteers
Some of these excluded individuals may still choose to opt into the system by purchasing private coverage.
What Injuries and Illnesses Are Covered?
Nebraska workers’ comp laws cover injuries and occupational diseases that arise from your job duties, including:
- Slip and fall accidents
- Machinery-related injuries
- Back strain from lifting
- Repetitive use injuries
- Hearing loss
- Exposure to hazardous materials
Injuries sustained while commuting to or from work typically aren’t covered unless you were performing a work-related task.
Types of Benefits You May Receive
If you’re approved for benefits, you may be eligible for:
- Medical Treatment: Full payment for all reasonable medical care, including surgery, rehabilitation, prescriptions, and travel expenses.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you are unable to work during your recovery, you may receive up to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to the state’s maximum rate.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): For employees who can return to light duty at a lower wage during recovery.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Compensation for permanent impairment to a specific body part.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): Lifetime benefits for workers who are unable to perform any type of work.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Job retraining for workers who cannot return to their previous occupation.
- Death Benefits: Surviving dependents may receive wage replacement and funeral cost reimbursement (up to $11,000).
Key Deadlines to Know
To protect your rights, you must:
- Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours
- File a formal workers’ compensation claim within 2 years of the accident or last payment of benefits
Failing to report promptly or file within the time limit may result in your claim being denied.
Medical Treatment Guidelines
Under Nebraska law, you can usually choose your own doctor for treatment, but you must notify your employer of your selection. If you do not choose, your employer may assign one.
All treatment must follow Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court medical fee schedules and utilization guidelines.
Disputes and Appeals
If your claim is denied or you disagree with the benefits awarded, you can:
- Request a mediation session with the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court
- File a petition with the Court for a formal hearing
You may also pursue appeals through the state’s judicial system if necessary.
Legal Help for Workers in Nebraska
If you’re dealing with:
- A denied claim
- Delayed payments
- Employer retaliation
- Confusing paperwork
You may benefit from working with a Nebraska workers’ compensation attorney. These attorneys typically work on a contingency basis and offer free consultations to discuss your options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a teacher in Lincoln or a farm equipment operator near Grand Island, an injury at work can disrupt your life. Nebraska’s workers’ comp system is designed to protect you—but only if you act quickly and follow the rules. Learn your rights, keep detailed records, and don’t hesitate to reach out for legal support if you’re struggling to get the benefits you deserve.