As a worker who has been injured or fallen ill due to your job, you deserve to be compensated to the fullest extent of the law for your injuries. Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation insurance covers wage replacement, medical reimbursement, and permanent disability benefits to employees. In situations where an employee has died due to a workplace injury or disease, family members may receive weekly death benefits and a lump sum to cover funeral and burial expenses.
At Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe, we have been representing injured workers for more than 30 years. Our specialized knowledge and attention to detail help our clients navigate the complexities of the appeals process, ensuring they obtain the benefits rightfully owed to them. If you have recently been denied benefits for a workplace injury claim, our workers’ compensation lawyers in Gettysburg, PA, are available to address your concerns.
Who is Required to Carry Workers’ Comp Insurance in PA?
Under Pennsylvania law, workers’ compensation applies to the following industries:
- Businesses that have one or more employees on payroll, regardless of whether they are full-time, part-time, or seasonal employees.
- Agricultural employers who employ farm workers who earn $1,200 or more for the calendar year and work more than 30 days during the calendar year.
- Domestic employers hire housekeepers, nannies, caregivers, and other household workers. Workers’ compensation coverage applies if a worker earns $750 or more in wages within three months.
Under Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation law, an employer must provide workers’ compensation to all employees if one employee fits the above criteria.
Overview of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Gettysburg
Pennsylvania workers’ compensation benefits include wage replacement, reimbursement for medical expenses, and death benefits. However, you must report your work injury to your employer within 120 days to qualify. Even so, it is best to report your injury immediately to avoid losing out on benefits.
Lost Wage Benefits
Lost wage benefits will be applied to employees who are unable to perform their regular job duties due to an injury or occupational disease. Employees who suffer a partial disability and are unable to work will typically receive 66 2/3% of their pre-accident weekly wages, subject to state limits. However, if a worker can work but their injury prevents them from working at full capacity, then they will be entitled to 66 2/3% of the difference between their pre-accident and post-accident wages. Additional benefits may apply based on the severity of the injury.
Medical Expenses
Employees will be eligible to recoup all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to their work injury or ailment. Costs that are covered include ambulatory services, emergency room care, surgeries, prescriptions, and physical therapy, among others. However, you will be required to see a physician who is on your employer’s list of pre-approved medical providers for the first 90 days. After this time, you will be allowed to choose your own provider.
When Should I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney?
It may be in your best interest to hire a workers’ compensation attorney in the following circumstances:
- If your claim is denied
- If your claim is being disputed
- The insurance company is refusing to cover treatments recommended by your treating provider.
- If you have a pre-existing condition
- If your employer is refusing to offer you lighter work duties or otherwise not complying with workers’ compensation regulations
- If permanent disability benefits are being denied
- If you are planning on applying for Social Security Disability Benefits
Even if your claim has been approved, having an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer by your side can help to secure maximum benefits. However, many workers are hesitant to involve an attorney for fear of incurring exorbitant legal fees. At Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe, our mission is to help you access the financial resources you need, not to nickel and dime you. You will not pay us anything unless we successfully secure benefits for you.
Speak with Our Gettysburg Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
A workplace injury can do more than disrupt your life; it can leave you in financial ruin. Employers in Pennsylvania are required to provide workers’ compensation benefits regardless of whether you are at fault for your injury. The Gettysburg workers’ compensation lawyers at Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe are dedicated to helping employees obtain the compensation they rightfully deserve. To learn more or schedule a free consultation, contact us online or call (717) 229-6580.