Structured vs Lump Sum Settlements in Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation

In Pennsylvania, employees seeking workers’ compensation may be offered a structured or lump sum settlement. But what does this mean, and what are the benefits of one over the other? Munley Law explains structured vs lump sum settlements in Pennsylvania workers’ compensation.

Workers’ Compensation Structured Settlement

When an injured worker chooses a structured settlement or annuity for workers’ compensation benefits, they agree to payments over a period of time rather than a one-time payment. These payments are often given weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly until the full settlement has been granted.

In some rare cases, these payments may be spread out for years until the recipient’s retirement or death; however, such a plan would require guidance from a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer.

If the injured employee has long-term medical expenses due to the injury, the employer’s insurance company may also include payments for these future medical expenses. […]

Can You Get Fired For Being on Light Duty?

So long as the employer has a legitimate reason, you can be fired while on light duty — but not because of it. Under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law, employers are not required to provide light duty work. Still, the employer must offer another position that the employee can perform if such a job is open.

If you were fired while on light duty, there are legal protections against wrongful termination for injured workers. Munley Law is here to help you with your workers’ compensation case.

Was I Fired for Being on Light Duty Work?

An employer cannot fire you for being injured or needing light duty accommodations. However, you can be fired while on light duty if:

• Your employer could not make accommodations for your injury, and there were no available positions you could perform.
• There was no light duty work available. […]

How Long Can Someone Be on Light Duty At Work?

No law dictates how long someone can be on light duty work. The length of time someone may be on light duty work restrictions is determined by the employer’s policy and the doctor’s recommendation. This means that your employer may say after so many weeks or months in a light duty position that you have to return to your old job, or that they can no longer employ you.

However, your light duty theoretically lasts as long as your workers’ comp benefits are paid, which could be indefinite. If you have questions about light duty work restrictions and how it impacts your workers’ compensation benefits, Munley Law can help.

Factors that Impact How Long You Can Be on Light Duty Work

Under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, employers can offer employees a work reduction that allows them to return to work while recovering from injuries. […]

Can I Still Get Worker’s Compensation After Getting Terminated?

The simple answer to this question is, yes. You can still collect workers’ comp benefits even after you were terminated from your job. Of course, there are a few stipulations. We’re going to take a deeper dive into the entire process of filing workers’ compensation claims after suffering an on the job injury. With these questions answered, there won’t be any curve balls thrown your way on your journey to recovery.

For more questions and for help with your workers’ compensation claim, contact a workers’ compensation lawyer at Munley Law today. Our specialized workers’ comp attorneys will guide you through the claims process, ensuring you receive the maximum amount of your benefits in a timely manner. We will make sure paperwork is filed correctly, appropriate notifications are sent, and deadlines are met. We offer a free consultation to injured workers where you will speak with an experienced attorney and discuss your legal options. […]

Pennsylvania workplace injury statistics

When you review Pennsylvania workplace injury statistics, the results are alarming. The Keystone State consistently rates above the national averages when it comes to nonfatal occupational illnesses and injuries. Whether workplace accidents result in injury or exposure to harmful substances, injured workers need to be aware of their rights when they require workers’ compensation benefits.

Pennsylvania Workplace Injury Statistics: Common Types of Workplace Accidents

According to the 2023 Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation and Workplace Safety Annual Report, there were 162,194 reports of injuries and illnesses, which was on decline from 2022 by over 5,000 reported cases. Furthermore, $2.9 billion in wage and medical benefits were dispersed statewide to injured employees.

While these may seem like favorable numbers for Pennsylvania workers, the compensation you receive ultimately depends on the severity of your injury.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, […]