Navigating the workers’ compensation system in Pennsylvania can seem complex, especially if you’re dealing with it for the first time. Workers’ compensation is a program designed to help employees who get injured or sick because of their job. It provides them with financial benefits like covering medical expenses and replacing lost wages.
Understanding this process is necessary for employees to ensure that their employer and the workers’ comp program handle their claims efficiently and correctly.
Report the injury
The first step in the workers’ compensation process is to report the injury to your employer. Pennsylvania law requires that you report your injury within 120 days of the accident. However, reporting the injury as soon as possible is important. This not only helps in documenting the injury accurately but also starts the process quicker. Employers then have a responsibility to report this injury to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
Seek medical attention
After reporting the injury, the next step is to seek appropriate medical attention. Your employer may require you to see a specific doctor for the first 90 days after the injury. During this time, it’s important to follow all medical advice and keep detailed records of any treatments, as these will be important for your claim.
The claim process
Once an injury is reported, the employer’s insurance company will review the claim to determine if it meets the criteria for workers’ compensation benefits. If approved, the injured employee will start receiving benefits, which typically cover medical costs and a portion of their lost wages if they are unable to work. The amount and duration of these benefits can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the expected recovery time.
If they deny your claim
If the insurance company denies the claim, the employee has the right to appeal the decision. Pennsylvania provides a workers’ compensation appeals process, which allows for a hearing in front of a workers’ compensation judge who will decide on the matter.
Understanding the workers’ compensation process in Pennsylvania is essential for navigating the system effectively. Each step must be handled carefully to ensure that injured workers receive the support they need. Being informed helps employees manage the process more smoothly and ensures that workers can focus on their recovery with peace of mind. If you were hurt at work, contact YOUR Workers’ Compensation Specialist for a free, no obligation consultation to learn how we can help you. Call 610-892-9300 or reach us online.