Workers’ Compensation Overview in Aston, PA
Getting hurt on the job can turn your life upside down. Fortunately, Pennsylvania has a workers’ compensation system designed to help. It provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, covering medical expenses and lost wages. At Schmidt Kirifides, Rassias & Rio, we believe injured workers deserve clear, honest answers and information when it comes to workers’ compensation claims in Pennsylvania.
Who Is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
Not everyone who works is covered, but most employees in Pennsylvania are. If you receive a regular paycheck and your employer controls how and when you work, you’re likely considered an employee, and that means you’re covered. Independent contractors, freelancers, and some gig workers usually don’t qualify unless they’ve been misclassified.
Workers’ comp applies to a wide range of job-related injuries and illnesses. This includes sudden accidents (like slipping on a wet floor), repetitive stress injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome), or illnesses caused by exposure to harmful substances (like asbestos or mold). Whether you’re a construction worker injured by machinery, a nurse hurt while lifting a patient, or an office employee with a back injury from poor seating, if your injury happened at work or because of work, you may be eligible.
What Benefits Can Injured Workers Receive?
Pennsylvania workers’ compensation offers several types of support to help injured employees recover:
- Medical Treatment: Workers’ comp pays for all reasonable and necessary medical expenses, including doctor visits, surgery, medications, physical therapy, and hospital stays.
- Wage Loss Benefits: If your injury keeps you from working, you may be entitled to wage replacement benefits. These are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to minimums and maximums.
- Specific Loss Benefits: If you suffer the loss (or permanent use) of a body part, such as a finger, hand, foot, or eye, or if you have disfigurement like facial scarring, you may receive a set amount of compensation.
- Death Benefits: If a work injury leads to death, surviving dependents may receive weekly payments and help with burial expenses.
These benefits are designed to reduce financial strain while you recover. However, getting them isn’t automatic.
The Claims Process in Pennsylvania
To begin the workers’ comp process, you must report your injury to your employer as soon as possible, ideally within 21 days and no later than 120 days from the date of injury. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to benefits.
After reporting, your employer should notify their insurance carrier and the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. If your claim is accepted, you should start receiving benefits. If not, you may need to formally file a claim petition. Time limits matter here, too: you generally have three years from the date of injury to file a petition.
Documentation is key, so be sure to keep records of medical visits, conversations, and any forms you receive.
Common Disputes and Denials
Unfortunately, not all claims go smoothly. Your employer may argue the injury didn’t happen at work. The insurance company might delay or deny your claim, saying your condition isn’t serious or isn’t work-related.
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied or you’re offered fewer benefits than you believe you deserve, you have the right to appeal. Appeals typically involve hearings before a Workers’ Compensation Judge, where you can present medical evidence and witness testimony. These cases can get technical, and legal help can make a big difference.
When to Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Workers’ comp claims often involve complex medical conditions, permanent disabilities, employer retaliation, or total denials of benefits. In these situations, an Aston workers’ compensation attorney can help you build a strong case, meet critical deadlines, and navigate the legal system while you focus on healing. If you think you have a workers’ compensation claim, it’s always in your best interest to consult with our Aston workers’ compensation lawyers as soon as possible.
At Schmidt Kirifides, Rassias & Rio, we’ve spent decades helping injured Pennsylvania workers protect their rights and secure the benefits they’re entitled to. We understand the tactics insurance companies use and how to fight back with solid evidence and strong advocacy.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
If you’ve been hurt at work, don’t suffer in silence. Report your injury, seek medical care, and learn your rights. Pennsylvania’s workers’ comp laws are here to support you, and so are we. For trusted guidance and clear answers, call us today at 610-892-9300 or contact us online.