Explaining The Basics Of Workers’ Comp In Pennsylvania

Workers’ compensation law is an incredibly complex field. It is easy to feel lost if you need to file a claim while also recovering from a painful workplace injury. Fortunately, you do not have to go through this process alone.

At Ainsman Levine, LLC, in Pittsburgh, we are with you. We make it a priority to get workers the benefits they deserve following accidents. To educate you about workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania, we have made a brief page to answer some of our clients’ frequently asked questions.

What should I do if I am injured while working?

If you suffer an injury at your job site, you should immediately stop working and seek medical attention. You have the right to choose your own doctor, though your employer may want you to see one that they recommend. Inform your supervisor of your injury as soon as you can and complete an accident report.

What types of workers’ compensation benefits are available in Pennsylvania?

There are multiple types of workers’ comp benefits available, including:

• Total disability
• Partial disability
• Specific loss
• Loss of wages
• Medical bills
• Certain travel expenses
• Death expenses

If your workers’ comp benefits do not cover all of your damages, then you may find it necessary to file a personal injury lawsuit.

What are the most common construction site accidents?

Accidents occur with alarming frequency on construction sites. Workers are constantly at a high risk for serious injury. Some of the most common incidents at these worksites include:

• Falling objects
• Scaffolding accidents
• Falls from ladders or high places
• Burns
• Machinery malfunctions
• Crushing incidents
• Exposure to toxic chemicals

Just one of these accidents can lead to lifelong suffering and the need for expensive rehabilitative therapy. Thankfully, construction workers have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits after an accident on the job.

What are the steps for filing for workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania?

To file a claim, you and your employer must complete several steps, including:

1. Notify your employer of the accident or illness.
2. Visit a doctor within 90 days for an evaluation.
3. Your employer must file a First Report of Injury with the state.
4. Gather all your medical documents and other documents related to the incident.
5. Contact a workers’ compensation attorney.

It is important to follow these steps quickly, as you have only 120 days from the date of your injury to file a claim.

How can a lawyer help me obtain workers’ compensation benefits?

Insurance companies often do not want to pay the full amount that injured workers need. Instead, they tend to make low settlement offers. By hiring an attorney, your employer and their workers’ comp insurance provider know that you are serious about getting all that you deserve. Your lawyer will communicate with the parties, advocate for your rights and explain the many steps to you.

Do I qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, just about all employers that have at least one employee must purchase workers’ compensation insurance. Therefore, if you suffer a work-related injury or illness, you almost certainly qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Even if your accident was due to your own mistake, you still likely qualify.

Learn More Answers – Contact Us Today

This page provides only a brief overview of some workers’ compensation facts. For a detailed assessment of your situation in which our lawyers can answer your questions, schedule a consultation. To contact us, please call 412-338-9167 or send us an email.