If you have recently been injured in Pennsylvania, you need a lawyer who is interested in protecting your best interests. You need someone who will advocate for you and assist you with the process of filing an official workers’ compensation claim. It’s imperative that you file a claim sooner rather than later in order to protect your rights fully. Read on to learn more about some of the most common questions associated with workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania.
When Do I Need to Tell My Employer I Was Hurt On the Job?
The Workers’ Compensation Act requires that you must give notice to your employer about an injury or illness on the job as soon as possible after it happens. At the latest you may do this on the 120th day after the injury. In general, however, it’s a much better idea to report this immediately, even if you think that you have a minor injury or that you will not file for a workers’ compensation.
What Qualifies as a Work Injury?
A work injury is any disease, injury or medical condition that is caused by a person’s employment situation. Although the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act does not outline specific kinds of injuries, rather it is a more broad application in which any injury associated with a job could be classified. This could include everything from strains to latex allergies to severe injuries.
When Is My Employer Responsible for Paying Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Once an employer receives notice of your injury, they have 21 days to agree that the injury is either work related or to deny the claim. Before you are eligible to receive any compensation for wage loss, medical proof from a doctor must confirm your injuries and explain whether or not you will be able to return to work.
Do I Have to Go to the Company’s Doctor?
The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act outlines that an injured employee only has to treat with an official company doctor for 90 days from the first initial visit only in situations where the employee has created a list of six designated healthcare providers and provided written notification of the employees’ duties and rights to the employee. Their employer is also responsible for getting the employees’ written acknowledgement that he or she has been made aware of these responsibilities.
How Long Am I Eligible to Receive Benefits?
There is no set time limit for receiving benefits. You may be able to receive benefits until you are able to go back to work or to settle your case. However, it’s a good idea to retain an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to protect your interests.
Who Pays My Medical Bills?
Hospitals, licensed medical providers, and doctors are paid for services based on a fee schedule that changes on a yearly basis. Injured employees should not be required to pay co-pays or any other fees associated with medical care for their work injury. In the event that your claim is denied, however, you may be seriously concerned about being able to cover any of your costs, you need to consult with a knowledgeable attorney about the appeals process.
Am I Eligible to Sue My Employer?
In the event that you pursue workers’ compensation, the answer to this question is usually no. In exchange for getting workers’ compensation benefits, an injured employee gives up his or her rights to sue an employer for pain and suffering. There are however some exceptions to this rule and these can be explained by your Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney.
Am I Eligible to Sue Another Party Who Injured Me?
You may be eligible to file a lawsuit for your pain and suffering against other companies or persons whose negligent conduct contributed to your injuries. Speak more to your workers’ compensation attorney about your next steps.