After a workplace injury, you need an experienced Scranton workers’ compensation lawyer to guide you through the complex process of pursuing the benefits you are entitled to. Since 1959, the award-winning board-certified attorneys at Munley Law have championed the rights of Pennsylvanians who’ve been injured at work or suffered work-related illnesses in Lackawanna County and further afield.
We’ve secured multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for clients, enabling them to cover their expenses, recover lost wages, and face the future with confidence. Our team includes a certified workers’ comp specialist attorney, lawyers who are members of the Multi-Million-Dollar Advocates Forum, an attorney who Best Lawyers named Lawyer of the Year for workers’ comp, and others who’ve received numerous accolades. Our injury lawyers in Scranton have also been honored by Martindale-Hubbell, Irish Legal 100, Lawdragon, Best Law Firms, the American Association for Justice, and other respected organizations.
Don’t face the confusing workers’ compensation system alone. Contact a workers’ comp attorney at Munley Law today to schedule a free consultation.
When Should You Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Scranton, PA?
You should hire our workers’ compensation lawyers as soon as possible after being injured at work or developing a work-related illness in Scranton, PA. Workers’ compensation laws are incredibly complicated to understand. It can be easy for an employer’s insurance company to deny a claim, which can leave you without the benefits you need to recover from your work-related injury. That’s why talking to an expert is important, as it helps you understand your rights as a worker.
Our Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyers have the expertise to determine whether you are likely eligible for payment. We will meet with you to discuss your accident, determine the appropriate legal steps, and provide options for moving forward. If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, our firm will assist you in filing with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to help you get the benefits you need to recover from your work injury.
Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney at Munley Law
Call Us At 844-686-5397 Why Should I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer at Munley Law?
Many law firms claim to handle workers’ compensation claims. However, it is difficult to find a firm in Scranton with Munley Law’s experience and prestige.
Our team includes Caroline Munley, a certified workers’ compensation specialist. This certification is from the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Section on Workers’ Compensation and is a respected credential given by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Only about 200 lawyers in the state hold this credential.
The Scranton work injury lawyers at Munley Law maintain their expertise through Mandatory Continuing Legal Education in workers’ compensation law. As part of Munley Law, our injury lawyers have secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for injury victims throughout Northeastern PA.
Their strong advocacy has earned them recognition as some of the top lawyers in PA. Best Lawyers named J. Christopher Munley Lawyer of the Year for Workers’ Compensation, while the National Trial Lawyers named all our partners among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Pennsylvania. Together with Robert Munley III and Marion Munley, Caroline is a member of the Multi-Million-Dollar Advocates Forum/Million Dollar Advocates Forum. She and Marion are also members of the International Society of Barristers and Litigation Counsel of America. In addition, Lawdragon named all our partners to the Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers list. Our partners have also been named to the Irish Legal 100 list and hold Martindale-Hubbell’s highest AV Preeminent rating.
Our team treats every client like family. We use our specialized skills to make sure you get the most benefits you deserve. Contact our worker injury lawyers today. Our team is here to help you get the full compensation you deserve for your injury.
Workplace Injury Statistics for Scranton and Lackawanna County
According to the Department of Labor and Industry, 805 workers’ compensation claims were filed in Lackawanna County in 2023, an increase from 2022. The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation’s 2024 annual report revealed that 1,629 work-related injuries and illnesses were reported in Lackawanna County that year. 588 of these injuries and illnesses occurred in education and health services, while 265 occurred in the trade and transportation industries.
Warehouse staff often suffer from overexertion, and sprains and strains are common in the Electric City healthcare industry. This includes places like Geisinger, Commonwealth Health, and the Lehigh Valley Health Network.
When these injuries happen, employees usually get only two-thirds of their salary while they recover. This can cause serious financial problems for families. Having experienced legal representation significantly improves your chances of securing the full benefits you deserve. The certified lawyers at Munley Law know the local risks. They have many years of experience helping injured people in Scranton. We help them get the money they need to support their families while they recover.
How Do Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Scranton Calculate Your Settlement?
Several factors affect a settlement. Our Scranton workers’ comp attorneys can explain how surgery, rehab, and lost wages work together. All cases are different, but these common factors could determine your coverage:
- The type and severity of your injury. For example, a herniated disc from a slip and fall that will require surgery may be worth more than a sprained wrist.
- Current and future medical expenses. If your injury requires extensive medical care, such as surgery or rehab, you can expect a larger settlement.
- Your wages. The higher your average weekly wage, the higher your settlement value may be. Workers’ compensation rates give you two-thirds of your average weekly wage. There is a maximum amount that changes each year. As of 2026, the maximum weekly amount is $1,394.
- Specific loss. If you lost the use of a body part, you could receive specific loss benefits. If you lose a hand, you will receive extra weekly benefits for the injury. This can last for up to 335 weeks.
Our workers’ compensation lawyers in Scranton, PA, will exhaust all possibilities when calculating the value of your claim.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available to Injured Workers?
Under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law, injured victims may qualify for one or more benefits, including medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. The most common types of compensation benefits that our Scranton workers’ compensation lawyers can help you get include:
- Total Disability Wage-Loss Benefits: Workers’ compensation wage-loss benefits begin after the first seven days of disability; if your disability extends beyond 14 days, you are also compensated for that initial waiting period. If your injury prevents you from returning to any work, you are entitled to total disability compensation benefits — sometimes called “TTD” in insurance paperwork — equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to the state’s annual maximum. These benefits continue until you return to work or your benefit status changes. After 104 weeks, your employer or insurer may request an Impairment Rating Evaluation (IRE). Under 34 Pa. Code § 123.105, a rating below 35% whole-body impairment converts your status from total to partial disability, capping future wage-loss benefits at 500 weeks. A rating of 35% or greater means you remain totally disabled and continue receiving total disability compensation. You have the right to appeal any change in status by filing a Petition for Review with the Department.
- Partial Disability Wage-Loss Benefits: If you can return to work in a limited capacity but earn less than your pre-injury wage, you may receive partial disability wage-loss benefits equal to two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury and current wages, up to the applicable maximum weekly rate. Insurance paperwork may refer to these as “TPD” or “temporary partial disability.” Under Section 306(b) of the Workers’ Compensation Act, partial disability benefits are capped at 500 weeks. Your benefit status may also be changed to partial disability following an IRE that results in a rating below 35%, as described above.
- Specific Loss Benefits: If you have permanently lost the use of a body part — including a limb, hearing, or vision — or suffered disfigurement, you may be entitled to specific loss benefits under Section 306(c) of the Workers’ Compensation Act. These benefits are paid for a set number of weeks depending on the body part affected. An attorney can help you determine what you qualify for.
- Medical Benefits: Workers’ compensation covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your workplace injury, including doctor visits, surgery, rehabilitation, and prescription medications. In some cases, it may also cover the cost of home modifications required because of your injury.
- Death Benefits: If a family member dies from a work-related injury or illness, surviving dependents may receive wage-loss benefits. Reasonable funeral and burial expenses are covered up to $7,000 under Act 111 of 2018.
How to File Workers’ Compensation Claims After a Workplace Accident in Scranton, PA
Filing for workers’ comp the right way following an accident is essential, as failing to follow the claims process may cause you to lose your benefits.
Follow these steps on what to do after an injury at work:
Report Your Accident to Your Supervisor
Even if symptoms show up later, report them right away. This will help keep other employees safe from accidents. If an injury occurs in the next few days, the accident will already be on record.
Your employer must display the contact information for the workers’ compensation carrier, including the administrator and the contact person. You will need this information when you submit the filing.
If you are injured, you must report your injury within 120 days of the accident. Failure to do so may mean losing your workers’ comp rights.
You should also be aware that, under 77 P.S.§602, the statute of limitations for filing a workers’ comp claim is three years from the date of the injury or the date of the diagnosis of your work-related illness.
Document Your Work Injury
Go to the doctor immediately after the accident to get checked out. This creates a medical record that shows how the accident caused your injuries. It also includes your treatment plan and any follow-up care you need. It’s essential to follow the treatment plan and all your appointments.
The doctor, not your boss or insurance company, will decide whether you should return or restrict your duties.
It might be helpful to keep a journal during this time. Write down your doctor’s visits and any pain or other issues you have after the accident.
Find a Scranton Workman’s Comp Attorney
There may be issues down the road with your workers’ comp claim, or you may have questions about the whole process. Whatever the case, it’s best to find an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to answer your questions and help you with your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Compensation in Scranton
What Is the 90-Day Rule for Workers’ Compensation?
The 90-day rule requires an injured worker to receive treatment for their injury or illness. They must see a healthcare provider chosen by the workers’ compensation company for 90 days. After 90 days, the injured worker can receive treatment from a healthcare professional who may not be on the list.
How Much Does a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Cost?
A workers’ compensation attorney at Munley Law costs nothing initially. Our workers’ comp attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. This means our lawyer only receives compensation if we have successfully represented our client and recovered compensation. The amount we receive depends on what we win for you.
How Long Does it Take to Receive Workers’ Comp Benefits?
If the insurance company accepts your workers’ compensation claim, your benefits should start within 28 days of your injury.
If your filing is denied or no decision is made within 21 days of your injury, get help from a qualified workers’ comp lawyer. If legal action becomes necessary, resolving your case could take eight to twelve months. Once it is decided and if it’s accepted, you will receive retroactive payments.
How Much Does Workers’ Compensation Pay?
The amount of money workers’ compensation pays depends on the specific case. If the injury or disease is considered compensable, a worker can get about two-thirds of their salary. The employee can receive workers’ compensation payments until they fully recover. This is based on a decision by a workers’ compensation judge.
Does Workers’ Compensation Cover Long-Term Conditions and Illnesses?
Workers’ compensation covers occupational long-term conditions and illnesses, although certain restrictions exist. The workers’ compensation program will protect you if you have an accident. It also covers injuries from long-term stress. You are covered for illnesses caused by job conditions and for any injuries that happen at work.
Does Workers’ Compensation Cover all Scranton Employees?
Yes. Most workers in Scranton are covered under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, including workers at the area’s largest employers in healthcare (Geisinger, Moses Taylor Hospital, Commonwealth Health), warehousing and logistics (Kane Warehousing, McLane, UPS), manufacturing (Lockheed Martin, Gentex, Barry Callebaut), and defense. The main exceptions are independent contractors, domestic workers, certain agricultural workers, and corporate officers who opt out. Workers in federally regulated industries, such as railroad workers and federal government employees, are covered under separate federal programs instead.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, don’t assume you’re not covered. Contact an attorney, the answer may surprise you.
Do All Workers’ Compensation Cases End in a Settlement?
Not all workers’ compensation cases end in a settlement, although most do. This settlement is beneficial for both the employee and the employer’s insurance. Still, there are many instances where no agreed-upon settlement can be reached, and the case ends up in court. To get the most compensation and strong support during a trial, you need an experienced lawyer with you.
What Can I Do If My Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied?
If your workers’ comp is denied, your first step is to contact a workers ‘compensation attorney to file an appeal. Your work injury lawyer will request a hearing with the workers’ compensation judge, and if the judge denies your petition, you can appeal to the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board within 20 days. You can appeal to the Commonwealth Court if you still receive a denial.
What Is a Third-Party Claim in Workplace Injury Cases?
If you were injured due to a third party’s negligence while you were at work, you may be able to pursue a third-party lawsuit while also collecting workers’ compensation. A workers’ comp lawyer in Northeastern Pennsylvania can help you seek reparations from the at-fault third party. For example, if you were involved in an accident while driving for work, you could sue the careless driver and obtain workers’ compensation through your employer’s insurance.
Can I Be Fired For Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim?
No, an employer cannot legally fire you for filing a workers’ compensation suit. Employers might give a different reason for firing you. However, if you believe it relates to a workers’ compensation claim, contact an attorney immediately. They can help you take action to restore your benefits.
However, a company may ask you to retire if you get workers’ comp. This can depend on your age and health. Retirement should not change how much you get from workers’ comp. However, some workers may experience a decrease in benefits when they retire. If you plan to retire, familiarize yourself with your plan’s details before signing any documents.
What Should I Do if My Employer Refuses to File a Report for My Injury?
If your boss refuses to complete an injury report on your behalf, you can always file a lawsuit for your payments. It is a good idea to have a workers’ compensation lawyer. You will need to go to several hearings with a judge. It is best to have representation present in any legal proceeding.
Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Scranton Can Help
If you suffer an injury while performing your job duties, you may fear for your livelihood. A work accident can place you out of employment for an extended period, as you may need surgery and rehabilitation. Given the potential consequences, you deserve compensation. Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer at Munley Law today to schedule a free consultation.
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Caroline Munley
Caroline Munley is a certified workers’ compensation specialist. During her time fighting for the rights of workplace injury victims, she has recovered millions of dollars for injured workers, in addition to being named as among the Best Lawyers in America for Plaintiffs and Workers’ Compensation Law-Claimants for Northeastern Pennsylvania.
