If you have been injured on the job in Pennsylvania, workers' compensation laws may entitle you to certain benefits. These benefits can include payment of medical bills, compensation while you're unable to work, vocational rehabilitation, permanent partial disability benefits, or total disability benefits. Your Pennsylvania employer's workers' compensation insurance is responsible for paying these benefits.
In Pennsylvania, workers' compensation coverage begins on your first day of employment regardless of whether you are a part-time or full-time employee. You may still be eligible for Pennsylvania workers' compensation benefits even if you were an independent contractor or a cash employee.
Injuries typically covered by Pennsylvania workers' comp include:
Pennsylvania workers' compensation laws can be complicated. A Pennsylvania workers' compensation attorney in your area can explain to you the application process and help you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.
Although your benefits may vary depending on what state or federal law applies, workers injured on the job--regardless of whether your employer was at fault--may be entitled to benefits that include:
If you receive Pennsylvania workers' compensation following an injury, you cannot sue your Pennsylvania employer for additional compensation in connection with your injury. You may, however, be able to file a lawsuit against others involved in your injury. For example, if you were injured in an automobile accident while working and the other driver was at fault, you might be able to sue the other driver. Or if your injury was the result of a defective machine, you might be able to sue the machine manufacturer. A Pennsylvania workers' compensation lawyer can advise you of your legal options.
If you're injured while at work or develop a job-related occupational disease in Pennsylvania, you should promptly seek medical treatment. Make sure to tell the doctor that your injury occurred on the job or in connection with your job.
Notify your employer of the injury or disease as soon as possible. In Pennsylvania, you'll also have to notify your employer of your work-related injury or disease in writing within 21 days.
Your Pennsylvania workers' compensation claim will be filed with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers' Compensation.
Once you've sought medical treatment for your injury or disease, you should consider contacting a Pennsylvania workers' comp lawyer to help guide you through the process of applying for Pennsylvania workers' compensation.
Federal government employees working in Pennsylvania, as well as Pennsylvania residents who worked on nuclear weapons, maritime workers, and coal miners would be covered under one of several federal workers' compensation programs.
Pennsylvania workers' compensation & the injured worker
Pennsylvania workers' compensation frequently asked questions
Pennsylvania workers' compensation forms
The U.S. Department of Labor's Workers' Compensation information page for federal government employees
The U.S. Department of Labor's summary of major labor laws
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration's summary of workers' rights
3 Easy Steps