Workplace fatalities are tragic and raise many questions for surviving family members about eligibility and the types of benefits available. If the death arose out of and occurred during the course of employment, there are three primary categories of benefits under workers' compensation laws.

Surviving spouses and minor children are typically eligible for weekly compensation. Key points include:

• For the spouse: Payments can continue for life unless the spouse remarries. Upon remarriage, the spouse may receive two years of benefits as a lump sum, ending further payments.

• For minor children: Payments end when the child turns 18 unless the child is physically or mentally incapacitated or enrolled in full-time accredited education.

• Lump-sum payments: While benefits can be taken as a lump sum, these are often heavily discounted and may not be advisable.

If the worker survives for a period before passing, the employer is responsible for:

• All reasonable medical expenses incurred due to the injury.

• Healing period payments owed prior to the worker's death.

Workers' compensation provides come coverage for burial costs. This benefit helps ease the financial burden during an already difficult time.

If the death was caused by the negligence of a person or company other than the employer, surviving family members may also pursue a personal injury claim in addition to workers' compensation benefits.

Navigating workers' compensation after a workplace death can be overwhelming. Understanding the benefits available—from weekly compensation to burial expenses—can help surviving families secure the support they need. Consulting with an experienced workers' compensation attorney at LLDDC Law can ensure you receive the full benefits to which you are entitled.