When thinking of workers’ compensation, most people will consider the benefits as medical expenses coverage and lost wage payments. However, the benefits of this program are more expansive than just those two points.
The Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Commission explains one other benefit you may receive is mileage reimbursement.
How it helps
Mileage reimbursement is payment for the gas you use to drive to medical appointments. If you use your personal vehicle for these trips, then you qualify for reimbursement. Instead of paying you for gas or giving you vouchers for gas, the workers’ compensation system pays you a certain amount per mile that you drive.
The reasoning
Workers’ compensation is by design made to help you with expenses you would not have had if you had not suffered an injury while at work. It is not your fault, and you should not have to pay anything. So, you should not have to pay for the traveling expenses associated with getting to and from medical appointments that you would not have had if you did not suffer an injury.
Amount
The amount of reimbursement changes regularly. Typically, it will adjust annually. But if gas prices have dramatic changes, then the rate may change more often. For example, in 2022, the rate went up from $0.56 per mile to $0.58.5 per mile on January 1 and then went up again to $0.62.5 on July 1 due to high rising gas prices.
You should make sure to claim all benefits to which you are entitled under workers’ compensation. If you are not aware of a benefit, it can be hard to collect it, which means you need to read all information provided to you about the program at the time of your injury.
