When you suffer an injury at work, many thoughts and worries can flood your mind. How will you cover medical bills? What about lost wages? Fortunately, workers’ compensation exists to ease some of these burdens. This system provides injured employees with essential benefits, such as covering medical expenses and compensating for lost earnings.
But what if the compensation does not meet your needs or expectations? Is there room for negotiation? Learn about the possibility of negotiating your workers’ compensation payment in Pennsylvania.
What is workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance program. It means that you do not need to prove that your employer was at fault for your injury to receive benefits. If you sustain an injury while on the job, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can include payment for medical expenses, wage loss compensation and compensation for specific losses such as a limb or hearing.
Can you negotiate the payment?
In Pennsylvania, the workers’ compensation system follows specific guidelines, and the payment rates are usually set according to a formula. However, you can still negotiate with the insurance company if you feel that the benefits do not adequately address your situation.
For example, if you disagree with the determination of your disability status or the calculation of your average weekly wage, you may negotiate with the insurer to reach an agreement that better reflects your needs and circumstances.
What steps can you take if you want to negotiate?
There are several steps you can take when working through a negotiation.
- Collect evidence. Gather all the necessary documents, including medical records, pay stubs and any other evidence that supports your case.
- Understand your rights. Familiarize yourself with the Pennsylvania workers’ compensation laws to understand what you can receive.
- Communicate with the insurer. Open a line of communication with the insurance company and express your concerns and what you believe you deserve.
- Consider a Compromise and Release. In some cases, you may agree to a lump sum settlement, known as a Compromise and Release, if both parties agree on the amount.
There is room for workers’ compensation negotiation if you believe the benefits do not match your needs. To learn how we can help you better address your financial and medical needs after a workplace injury, contact YOUR Workers’ Compensation Specialist for a free, consultation. Call 610-892-9300 or reach us online.