For over 65 years, we have been fighting for our Wilkes-Barre neighbors when they’re injured on the job. We’re not just lawyers who work here—we have deep roots in the Wyoming Valley. Our team understands the challenges faced by the hardworking people of Wilkes-Barre.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Wilkes-Barre workers’ compensation lawyer who knows the local industry and Pennsylvania law. There is no fee unless we win your case.
When to Hire a Workers’ Comp Attorney in Wilkes-Barre, PA
When work-related accidents happen, workers’ compensation is meant to cover the medical expenses and compensate for your lost wages while you’re out of work. You may collect workers’ compensation benefits if your work results in an injury or illness. However, the claims process can prove more complicated than that. The insurance company may reject your claim and deny that your injury was work-related. Or, you may stop receiving your benefits before returning to work. If this happens, it’s time to consult an experienced Wilkes-Barre workers’ compensation attorney at Munley Law.
Other instances of when you need an attorney for your claim include:
- You’ve been permanently disabled by a work accident
- Your injury is being disputed, or you have a pre-existing condition
- The insurance company is preventing you from getting the medical treatment you need
- You are currently involved in legal proceedings, such as a hearing with the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Board
- You have a third-party injury claim in Luzerne County
The most important part of your workers’ compensation claim is that you have medical documentation of your injuries. After you are injured at work, you must visit a doctor to understand how severe the injury is. You will also need to speak to your employer about the accident and fill out an incident report explaining how the accident happened, the severity of the injury, and any treatments you will need.
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth hiring a workers’ comp lawyer, your best bet is to speak with an experienced Wilkes-Barre personal injury lawyer at Munley Law to learn how we can help you and determine your next steps.
Benefits Available to Injured Workers in Wilkes-Barre
Depending on the severity of your injury, there are several types of benefits injured workers could be eligible for after a workplace accident:
- Medical Bills – Workers’ compensation will be responsible for paying any medical expenses related to your accident. This includes but is not limited to doctor’s visits, surgery, lab tests, medication, medical equipment, and ongoing care.
- Lost Wages – If the accident causes you to lose time from work, workers’ comp will pay a percentage of your wages.
- Specific Loss Payments – If the work injury results in a permanent loss, such as disfigurement or loss of limb, you may be eligible for specific loss payments for your Wilkes-Barre work injury.
- Disability Payments – If you are temporarily or permanently disabled because of the accident, you will receive benefits.
- Death Benefits – If you lost a loved one in a workplace accident, you could receive workers’ compensation death benefits on their behalf. This includes funeral expenses.
- Social Security Disability – You may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits in addition to workers’ comp.
You should begin receiving benefits approximately 21 days after you report your injury to your employer.
Speak with a Wilkes-Barre workers’ compensation lawyer near me.
What Is an Independent Medical Exam for Wilkes-Barre Injured Workers?
If there is a dispute with the workers’ compensation insurance carrier, you may be asked to have an independent medical exam. Also known as an IME, it is a medical examination done by an independent medical professional as chosen by the insurance company.
While these doctors are qualified to treat and diagnose you, you must be prepared before your exam. Before an IME, you should speak to an experienced workers’ comp lawyer. Munley Law can help you understand the process before and after the exam and provide legal advice. They can also advise you on what to do or not do during your exam. For example:
- Be honest. You may be nervous or assume they will deny your claim if you divulge too much, but you must be real. If these doctors think you’re lying, even slightly, they can deny your benefits.
- Don’t speak poorly of your employer. Your doctor’s appointment is not the time to discuss workplace issues. Stick to facts about this specific injury.
- Don’t exaggerate. Along with telling the truth, don’t embellish your injuries. An experienced workers’ compensation doctor can tell when you’re not being truthful. Even a small exaggeration can impact your claim.
Many cases are lost because workers do not consult a lawyer beforehand. If you’re facing an IME, please contact us immediately.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
1170 PA-315
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
(570) 399-0406
