Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation: Do You Qualify?
Workers’ compensation provides benefits to employees who have suffered work-related illnesses or injuries. Pennsylvania workers’ compensation laws require most employers to carry this insurance to protect their employees and ensure they receive proper medical care and financial support if they cannot work due to an injury.
However, many employees may not be aware of their rights and may not know if they qualify for workers’ compensation. Find out the eligibility requirements for Pennsylvania workers’ compensation and how a lawyer can help you navigate this complex system.
Who Is Covered by Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation?
In general, all employees who work for an employer with workers’ compensation insurance are covered by the system handled by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry. This includes full-time, part-time, seasonal, and even temporary employees.
Pennsylvania workers’ compensation coverage extends to all types of industries and occupations, from office workers to construction workers. However, certain exceptions do apply, such as independent contractors or domestic workers who work fewer than 40 hours a week.
What Injuries Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
Pennsylvania workers’ compensation covers injuries and illnesses that are work-related. This means if you were injured while performing your job duties, you may be eligible for benefits. These injuries can range from physical injuries like a back strain from lifting heavy objects to occupational diseases such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
It’s important to note that in Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation does not cover injuries sustained during a commute to or from work or injuries that occur during an employee’s lunch break. However, you may still be covered if you were injured while performing a work-related task outside of your usual workplace, such as attending a work conference.
What Benefits Are Available Through Workers’ Compensation?
If you qualify for workers’ comp in Pennsylvania, you may be entitled to several types of benefits. These include:
- Medical benefits: This covers the cost of medical treatment related to your work injury or illness.
- Wage replacement benefits: Work replacement provides a portion of your lost wages if you cannot work due to your injury.
- Specific loss benefits: Specific loss benefits compensate the worker for permanent impairment or loss of body parts, such as amputation.
- Death benefits: These benefits provide financial support to the dependents of a worker who died due to a work-related injury or illness.
How Can a Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help You?
Navigating the workers’ compensation system in Pennsylvania can be complex and overwhelming. A lawyer handling this area of law can explain what your rights are, gather the evidence that supports your claim and handle the negotiations with the insurance companies.
A lawyer can also assist you if your claim is denied or disputed and represent you at workers’ compensation hearings. Having a knowledgeable and experienced advocate on your side can greatly increase your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.
The Travis Law Firm: Workers’ Compensation
The Travis Law Firm can assist you if you have problems with your workers’ comp claim or if a third party might be liable. You can count on us to work tirelessly on your behalf to obtain the medical treatment and financial compensation you need to recover. If you want to speak with us about your case, call us at (814) 277-2222 or send us an online message for a free review of your claim.