Workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania is designed to help employees who experience injuries on the job, whether serious or minor. Even if your work injury is not life-threatening, it can still cause medical bills and time off from your job in Pennsylvania. Like many people, you may not have extra money to pay the costs and cover your lost wages without having to juggle your finances. At Douglas, Joseph & Olson Attorneys At Law, we often get questions. These questions focus on what workers can do after they injure themselves at work.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Pennsylvania
Most employers in Pennsylvania must have workers’ compensation insurance. This is according to the state Department of Labor and Industry’s Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. This coverage should pay for all medical expenses related to your work injury. It starts with any charges from the first day of your injury and continues from there.
Benefits will cover a portion of your wages if you are unable to work, starting on the eighth day after your injury. Payments for the first seven days will be issued only after you have missed 14 days of work. If you tell your employer about the injury right after the accident, it may take up to 21 days to get your first check.
Your benefits checks do not cover your full wages. Instead, they are figured based on the average amount of your weekly wage; however, they may be calculated in more than one way. Typically, the benefits amount to about two-thirds of that figure. However, they may be reduced by Social Security benefits, severance pay, and any other income you receive. More information about the workers’ compensation system and benefits is available on our webpage.
Filing Deadlines and Appeals
In Pennsylvania, workers must tell their employer about any work-related injury within 120 days. This is important to keep their benefits. However, you have up to three years from the date of injury to file a formal claim petition.
If your claim is denied, you may appeal through the Office of Adjudication, where Workers’ Compensation Judges handle hearings and resolve disputes. It’s important to keep meticulous records of all medical treatments, communications, and employment details related to your injury.
Covered and Excluded Injuries
Covered injuries include both sudden workplace accidents and repetitive stress or occupational illnesses. However, injuries that are self-inflicted or occur while under the influence of drugs or alcohol are typically excluded from coverage.
For disputes, questions, or guidance on filing, contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers’ Compensation or speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
More information about the workers’ compensation system and benefits is available on our webpage.
