The Czech government is set to increase injury compensation payments starting next year, a move that will relieve many. This adjustment will benefit those living with permanent consequences of work-related injuries and occupational diseases, as well as survivors of workplace accidents.
The increase, averaging several hundred crowns per month, responds to the simultaneous rise in pension payments. The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has prepared a draft regulation for the government meeting, proposing this adjustment to maintain the actual value of these compensations.
From January 1st, pension percentage rates will increase by 0.6 per cent, with the basic pension amount rising by 260 CZK. To match this, the ministry suggests raising the average earnings into which these compensations are paid to the injured and survivors by the same percentage and amount.
This adjustment is crucial to prevent a decrease in the real value of injury rents and a subsequent drop in the living standards of those receiving them. For those who receive disability pensions due to their injuries, this increase ensures that their overall income will indeed reflect the pension raise rather than being offset by a reduction in compensation payments.
To illustrate, consider an individual who earned 30,000 crowns before their injury and now, due to limited employment opportunities, only earns 25,000 CZK without receiving a disability pension. This person is entitled to a monthly compensation of 5,000 crowns. Come January, their injury rent is set to increase by 290 crowns.
Similarly, survivor’s benefits for those who have lost family members due to workplace accidents or occupational diseases will increase. These compensations amount to 50 per cent of the deceased’s previous average earnings if claimed by one person and 80 per cent if claimed by multiple individuals.
This move by the Czech government demonstrates a commitment to supporting those affected by workplace injuries and their families, ensuring their compensation keeps pace with the rising cost of living and pension adjustments.