Injuries at work are unfortunate, but quite common in the Philadelphia area. Hence, workers should be aware of all their rights in respect to workers’ compensation so that they can claim the compensation. When it comes to collecting workers’ compensation, having the assistance of a work injury lawyer can be crucial.
Workplace injuries may be debilitating. Though most victims are fortunate enough to continue working in the same capacity as they did prior to the injury, some employees aren’t able to handle the financial crunch. In these cases, workers’ compensation is the best solution for them. However, there are instances when employees are denied workers’ compensation benefits.
If you or someone you know was injured in the workplace and are having trouble obtaining workers’ compensation benefits from an employer, then connect with a Work injury lawyer immediately.
Workers’ compensation covers expenses for workplace injuries from the very first day the employee starts working with the organization, irrespective of the individual’s medical history.
Employers can get Workers’ Compensation coverage from a third-party licensed insurance provider that offers insurance services in Philadelphia, or through Pennsylvania’s State Workers’ Insurance Fund.
Types of Workplace injuries covered under workplace compensation
Some of the most common injuries suffered by workers in the United States include:
- Muscle sprains and strains from falling, heavy lifting, tripping or slipping.
- Fractures from transportation accidents, falling, or any other similar actions.
- Concussions due to falling or accidents during transportation.
- Strain injuries due to poor posture and repetitive or forceful activity.
- Lacerations and cuts from transportation accidents, power equipment or lack of training.
- Damage caused to the body due to toxic fumes. This is a common situation in the manufacturing and related sectors caused by failure to use proper personal protection gadgets like face masks, goggles.
- Hearing damage caused by exposure to loud noises occurring at the workplace. This is a common problem suffered by individuals working in the manufacturing industry.
Workers’ compensation benefits for individuals suffering from on job injuries
Lost wages/salary benefits – This benefit is meant for employees who are completely or partially disabled due to work injuries. As a result of their disability, their wage is reduced in comparison to what they earned before the incident. In case the employee takes 14 days off from work due to workplace injury, then the first week of the individual’s disability is retroactively paid.
Medical treatment expenses – Workers are eligible for a reasonable amount of compensation for medical or surgical treatment. This benefit also includes orthopedic appliances, supplies, medicine, prostheses, hospital services and treatment, and other expenses.
Monetary compensation for death of employee – In the case of an employee’s death due to work-related illness or injury, workers’ compensation is given to their family members. Family members of the employee should connect with an expert Injury lawyer for professional guidance and help.
Specific loss compensation – work injury lawyer in Philadelphia helps individuals in getting compensation to employees who lose a specific body part like a toe, thumb, hand, finger, leg, arm, or foot. The compensation benefit is also applicable to individuals who lose their hearing or vision because of a workplace accident.
Workers’ Comp in Philadelphia recovery process
If you have been injured on the job in Philadelphia and need to claim workers’ compensation benefits, follow the steps outlined below to submit a claim.
- Notify the Employer – Employees must notify their employer of the workplace illness or injury within 4 months of the injury. After reporting the accident to the employer within the period of 21 days, the employee is eligible for benefits from the injury date. If the injury is reported after 21 days, individuals receive compensation from the date they tell their employer. Hence, it’s recommended to report the injury as early as possible.
- Seek proper medical care immediately – In case of emergency, make sure to seek medical attention immediately. If it isn’t an emergency, get treatment from an expert pre-approved by the insurance provider of the employer. Employees can get treatment from their own doctor after 90 days of the injury.
- File for compensation benefits – To collect benefits, employees should file a claim with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. The employer should submit the First Report of Injury to the state to initiate the proceedings. Employees should file this claim with the help of a work injury lawyer within 36 months of the injury to be eligible for benefits.
- Employer notifies insurance company about employee’s injury – The employer is liable for notifying its insurance company about the employee’s injury. The claim is considered by the insurance carrier within 21 days of the claim. They will either approve the request or deny the benefits as per their policy.
If the claim is accepted, the employee will receive a Notice of Compensation Payable and will start receiving the benefits. In case of denial of the claim, the employee has the opportunity to appeal that decision. A work injury attorney plays a crucial role in helping employees secure their benefits. They also help and guide them with appeals against compensation denial.
A Philadelphia Injury Lawyer acts as legal representation for Philadelphia residents who have been injured at work. They try to gain the best settlement possible for clients, and they also provide consumers with educational articles about safety in the workplace. If you are looking for a work injury lawyer in the Philadelphia area, please contact Greg Prosmushkin today.
