Rhode Island Workers' Compensation Laws

For latent or undiscovered physical or mental impairments, the 2-year period does not begin until the employee knew, or should have known, of the impairment and its causal connection to employment.

Report the injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident. Written notice is recommended.

If benefits are denied or disputed, file a petition with the Rhode Island Workers' Compensation Court within 2 years of injury.

Nearly all employers with one or more employees must carry workers' compensation insurance. Individual owners and partners are exempt. Failure to comply can result in fines of $1,000/day, a felony charge, and a fine of up to $10,000 plus 2 years imprisonment.

For injuries on or after January 1, 2022, temporary total disability benefits pay 62% of the employee's average weekly base wages. For earlier injuries, the rate is 75% of average weekly spendable earnings. Benefits are subject to a maximum tied to the state average weekly wage.

Employees must notify their employer of a work injury within 30 days of the accident. Written notice is recommended to preserve the claim.

The employer is responsible for providing reasonable and necessary medical, surgical, dental, optical, and hospital services for work-related injuries. The employer has the right to designate the initial treating physician.

Employers cannot discharge or discriminate against an employee for filing or intending to file a workers' compensation claim.