Don had been working construction for more than 15 years without any serious injuries. However, his streak ended when he fell from some scaffolding. He sustained head and spine injuries that required extensive medical care for the foreseeable future. Although Don could not work, he still had bills to pay and a family to support. He’s one of the many Pennsylvanians that need to file workers’ comp claims every year.
It’s important to understand the basics of workers’ compensation. Almost every worker in Pennsylvania is covered by their employer’s workers’ comp insurance since the law requires most employers to purchase it. Eligible employees usually qualify for benefits from the first day of work.
When on-the-job injuries happen or occupational diseases develop, people count on workers’ comp to start immediately. However, sometimes people have to file workers’ comp claims to get the benefits they deserve.
Your claim essentially starts on the day you report your injury to your employer. That’s one reason it is so important to notify your employer immediately. Your boss will inform the insurance carrier, who then has 21 days to respond to your claim. If your employer or its insurer denies your request, you may file a workers’ comp claim with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
Your employer should have filed a First Report of Injury as soon as you reported your accident or exposure. This is another reason it is essential that you notify your employer of any illness or injury immediately.
The insurer and your employer will make decisions about your workers’ comp claim. Remember that they do not have your best interests in mind. If they begin paying your medical bills and cover other expenses allowed by workers’ comp law, you might avoid having to battle over workers’ comp. Employers and their insurers might try to avoid paying your claim by:
If your claim has been denied, you may need to appeal. It’s best to have an experienced workers’ comp attorney on your side.
The process for filing and receiving approval of workers’ compensation claims in Pennsylvania is complicated. Claimants are required to provide a long list of information in the form of medical records and other necessary documentation. This information must be collected, organized, and presented within certain procedures and deadlines. Powell Law has represented injured workers for 115 years and has a distinguished reputation throughout northeastern Pennsylvania for adhering to the highest standards in serving those injured on the job. Contact Powell Law at (570) 961-0777. The consultation is FREE, and you don’t pay unless we win!
