PA Workers' Compensation Benefits & How To Obtain Them

Workers’ Compensation laws vary somewhat from state to state. If you are injured or become ill on the job due to a work-related condition, you likely are considering filing for Workers’ Compensation. While an attorney often represents you to get the benefits you are due, you should still have basic knowledge of workers’ compensation.

Workers’ Comp – the Basics

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, workers’ compensation “provides coverage for an employee who has suffered an injury or illness resulting from job-related duties.” The coverage an individual is entitled to includes “medical and rehabilitation costs and lost wages.” While employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance on employees, actually getting benefits is often an entirely different ballgame. The battle to obtain workers’ compensation often requires the help of an attorney who focuses on workers’ compensation claims.

Workers’ compensation is explained by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, who notes that nearly every worker is covered by the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, with certain exceptions. One exception is that no workers’ compensation benefits will be paid for intentionally inflicted injuries.

Step 1

The first step in securing workers’ compensation is to report any injury or work-related illness to your supervisor or designated administrator immediately, no matter how minor the injury or work-related illness. Failure to report the injury in a timely manner can result in delay or denial of benefits. Your employer is required to report the injury or illness to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation after your first missed day or shift of work. If your employer denies your claim, you have the right to file a Claim Petition to have your situation heard by a Workers’ Compensation Judge. You can represent yourself; however, you will likely want the services of an attorney who focuses on getting benefits due to workers, such as an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer at Robinson Law LLC. To pursue workers’ compensation benefits, in most circumstances, it requires testimony from a physician, and only an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer will know how to read the medical records and ask the right questions for the best possible outcome in each particular situation.

How to Get Your Benefits with the Help of a Qualified Attorney

When you consult an attorney focusing on workers’ compensation claims, be prepared to answer questions such as the date of injury, who witnessed it, who you reported the injury to, and when. It may help you to recall pertinent information by keeping a log, so you will have all the information readily available.

While reporting the injury to your employer is mandatory, you should not have to fear retaliation for doing so. Report any threats or hints of retaliation to your attorney. Keep all medical appointments and follow through with all treatment ordered by doctors. Attorneys at Robinson Law LLC will look out for your best interests and will help you obtain the full workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.