If you’ve been injured at work in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, you may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, or the stress of recovery, you don’t have to manage this challenging time alone. A Lebanon workers’ compensation lawyer can help you secure the benefits you’re entitled to so you can focus on getting better.
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Workers’ Compensation in Pennsylvania
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. In Pennsylvania, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you are injured at work, you may be entitled to:
- Medical Benefits: Coverage for necessary medical treatment related to your injury
- Wage-Loss Benefits: Payments to replace a portion of your lost wages
- Specific Loss Benefits: Compensation for the permanent loss of a body part or function
- Death Benefits: Support for surviving family members if a work-related injury results in death.
Common Workplace Injuries
Injuries can happen in any workplace. However, certain industries have higher rates of reported injuries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022, Pennsylvania reported 115,200 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses. The highest rates were in:
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: 3.5 cases per 100 full-time workers.
- Education and Health Services: 3.5 cases per 100 full-time workers.
- Manufacturing: 3.3 cases per 100 full-time workers.
Common injuries include:
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Overexertion injuries
- Machinery accidents
- Repetitive stress injuries
Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury
If you get hurt on the job, what you do next can make a big difference in your recovery — and your ability to receive benefits. Here’s what you should do:
- Report the Injury: Inform your employer as soon as possible.
- Seek Medical Attention: Get checked by a healthcare professional.
- File a Claim: Submit a workers’ compensation claim to your employer’s insurance company.
- Consult an Attorney: Contact Munley Law to discuss your case and options.
Getting hurt at work is stressful, but you don’t have to go through the process alone. If you’re unsure about what to do next, Munley Law is here to help. Call us for a free consultation.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Workers’ compensation is meant to help injured workers get medical care and wage support. But the process can be more complicated than it seems. Insurance companies often delay or deny claims.
They may try to pay less than you deserve. With a workers’ compensation attorney on your side, you have someone who knows the system and can push back. An experienced lawyer can collect medical records, speak with doctors, and build a strong case.
They know the deadlines, rules, and how to fight for full benefits — even if your claim is denied or your injury keeps you from returning to work. At Munley Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Recent Trends in Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation
In 2023, Pennsylvania experienced a slight decrease in workplace injuries and illnesses, with 115,200 reported cases, down from 123,400 in 2022. This resulted in a total recordable cases (TRC) incidence rate of 2.6 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers, slightly above the national rate of 2.4.
Certain industries continue to report higher rates of workplace injuries. In 2023, the education and health services sector had a TRC rate of 3.5 per 100 full-time workers, while the trade, transportation, and utilities sector also reported a TRC rate of 3.5. These rates are notably higher than the overall state average.
Common Causes of Workplace Injuries
Overexertion remains the leading cause of workplace injuries in Pennsylvania, accounting for 25.6% of all reported cases in 2023. Other common causes include being struck by objects (22.1%), struck against objects (11.5%), and falls (9.2%).
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as strains and sprains, continue to be prevalent, representing over 50% of all workplace injuries in the state. Specifically, strains and sprains accounted for 35.6% of injuries, while contusions, crush injuries, and bruising made up 21.7%.
Injury Locations
Injuries to the upper extremities, including hands, arms, and shoulders, accounted for 37.9% of all workplace injuries in 2023. The lower extremities, including knees, legs, and feet, followed with 22.6%. Back injuries represented 11.2%, and head injuries accounted for 12.6%.
Employer Size and Injury Rates
Establishments employing between 50 and 249 workers reported the highest TRC incidence rate at 3.1 per 100 full-time workers. In contrast, establishments with fewer than 11 employees had a TRC rate of 1.1.
Why Choose Munley Law
At Munley Law, we understand how overwhelming life can feel after a workplace injury. You’re dealing with pain, medical appointments, and the worry of lost income. That’s where we come in. For over 65 years, our firm has stood up for injured workers across Pennsylvania, including right here in Lebanon County.
Our attorneys have earned national recognition, including listings in The Best Lawyers in America®, and we’ve secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. But we’re proud of more than just our results.
We’re proud of how we treat people. When you work with Munley Law, you get a legal team that listens, explains things clearly, and fights hard for your best outcome. Contact Munley Law for a free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Compensation in Lebanon, PA
What if my employer says I’m not covered?
Even if your employer says you’re not covered, you may still qualify. Most employers in Pennsylvania are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, even for part-time and seasonal employees. If your employer claims you’re not covered, it’s important to speak with a Lebanon workers’ compensation lawyer right away to review your rights.
Can I see my own doctor?
By Pennsylvania law, your employer may require you to see a doctor from their approved list for the first 90 days after your injury—but only if they have a posted list of providers and met all notice requirements. After 90 days, you may be able to choose your own doctor. If no list was properly posted, you can choose your doctor from the start.
What happens if I can’t return to my old job?
If you can’t return to your previous job due to your injury, you may still receive wage-loss benefits. You might also be entitled to vocational rehabilitation services to help you find other work. In some cases, a claim for permanent disability may be possible. Munley Law can help you explore all available options based on your specific case.
Do I need a lawyer if my claim is approved?
Even if your claim is approved, legal help can still be valuable. For example, the insurance company might not be paying the full amount you’re owed, or they may try to stop your benefits early. They could also dispute your work restrictions or try to end your benefits before you’ve fully recovered. A Lebanon workers’ compensation attorney can make sure everything is handled fairly, your rights are protected, and that you’re not being shortchanged in any way.
Can I be fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim?
No, it’s against the law for an employer to fire or retaliate against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly after reporting a work injury, it’s important to consult an attorney. You may have grounds for an additional legal claim, and a lawyer can help you understand your options for pursuing justice.
Contact a Lebanon Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
If you have sustained a workplace injury, the last thing you need is a hassle from your employer or an insurance company. Call the Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Munley Law to discuss your case.