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Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Lawyer

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Our dedicated Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyers have been representing the hardworking families of Pennsylvania for more than 60 years. We are here to help you navigate the process and fight for the benefits you deserve. From the claims process to appeals and everything in between, we are here to make sure Pennsylvania workers get the help they need until they’re ready to return to work.

Contact Munley Law today for a free consultation. Whether you’ve received a denial letter or are uncertain about the claims process, there’s no risk in calling a lawyer for a consultation. The consult is free of charge.

Why Choose Our PA Workers’ Compensation Lawyers?

Pennsylvania workers compensation lawyers Caroline Munley and Robert Munley IIIChoose Munley Law workers’ compensation lawyers for their unparalleled expertise, dedication to achieving maximum compensation, and commitment to personalized, compassionate client service. Let an expert Pennsylvania workers comp attorney at Munley Law help you navigate your worker’s compensation claim. With more than 60 years of experience handling Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law, our skilled attorneys understand the complex state laws and regulations concerning Pennsylvania work injury claims.

  • Experience and Expertise in Workers’ Compensation Law: Munley Law boasts a team of highly experienced attorneys specializing in workers’ compensation law. Our expertise means we are well-versed in the complexities of the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, the tactics employers and insurance companies use to minimize payouts, and the strategies for maximizing our clients’ compensation. We have helped workers in construction, distribution and fulfillment, healthcare, law enforcement, maintenance, transportation, and more.
  • Personalized Attention: Munley Law is known for offering personalized attention to each of our clients. Understanding that each case is unique, we take the time to listen to your story, assess your specific situation, and tailor a legal strategy that addresses your individual needs and goals.
  • Proven Track Record: Our law firm has a decades-long track record of securing significant client settlements and awards.
  • Reputation and Integrity: With a reputation for integrity and ethical practice, our peers, courts, and adversaries respect Munley Law in the legal industry. This respect can be a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

What Types of Cases Do Our PA Workers Comp Attorneys Handle?

Our PA workers comp attorneys handle all types of cases that involve a work injury in Pennsylvania. From a workplace accident to occupational diseases, we are there to handle your claim. If your workers’ comp benefits have been denied, we can lend a hand in the appeals process.

  • Workplace Accidents: If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident, our attorneys will investigate the circumstances, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. We will fight to secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
  • Occupational Diseases: Occupational diseases caused by workplace conditions or exposure to hazardous substances can have long-term consequences. We are well-versed in handling complex occupational disease claims and will strive to ensure you receive proper medical treatment and compensation.
  • Denied Claims and Appeals: If your workers’ compensation claim has been rejected, you can feel angry and scared. But don’t let your initial claim denial stop you from pursuing the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers have extensive experience with claim denials and appeals in Pennsylvania. We will fight for you to receive your maximum compensation.

We recognize that every case is unique. Munley’s dedicated Pennsylvania workers compensation lawyers take the time to listen to your story, understand your specific circumstances, and develop a tailored legal strategy that is designed to win.

What Are the Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in PA?

The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act was designed to protect employees with work-related injuries or illnesses. Most employees in Pennsylvania are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, regardless of fault. PA workers comp covers injuries and illnesses that occur during employment, starting from your first day on the job. The types of benefits you will receive following a workplace injury include:

Medical Benefits

Medical benefits cover the necessary and reasonable medical expenses related to your work-related injury or illness, including doctor visits, hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and other essential medical treatments for your recovery.

Wage Loss Benefits

Wage loss benefits compensate you for some of the wages lost due to your work-related injury or illness. In Pennsylvania, injured workers are entitled to 2/3 of their average weekly wage, up to a weekly maximum. This maximum number changes each year. In 2024, workers receiving workers’ compensation benefits for lost wages can receive up to $1,325 per week for injuries occurring on or after January 1, 2024. This represents a 4% increase from 2023.

There are four types of wage loss benefits in Pennsylvania:

  • Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If your injury prevents you from working entirely, TTD benefits provide a percentage of your average weekly wage until you can return to work.
  • Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If your injury allows you to work but with reduced earning capacity, TPD benefits cover a portion of the difference between your pre-injury and post-injury wages.
  • Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If your work-related injury or illness permanently prevents you from gaining any employment, PTD benefits provide ongoing wage loss compensation.
  • Specific Loss Benefits: If you suffer permanent loss or impairment of a specific body part, such as a limb or vision, specific loss benefits provide compensation based on a predetermined schedule.

Specific Loss Benefits

In Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation includes “specific loss benefits.” These benefits are designed to compensate injured workers for the loss of, or the permanent loss of use of, a specific body part, as well as for severe disfigurement or scarring of the head, neck, or face.

The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act lists specific body parts for individuals to receive specific loss benefits. This list includes but is not limited to, arms, legs, fingers, toes, eyes, and ears. The law also specifies the number of weeks of pay one can receive for the loss of a particular body part. For example, the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act specifies that payments compensate for the loss of a hand for 335 weeks. For total hearing loss in both ears, the compensation is set for 260 weeks.

Death Benefits

Death benefits provide financial compensation to the dependents or beneficiaries of a worker who dies due to a work-related injury or illness. This includes a burial allowance and ongoing wage loss benefits for the surviving spouse and dependent children.

Scarring and Disfigurement Benefits

Scarring and disfigurement benefits provide compensation for significant and permanent scars or disfigurement resulting from a work-related injury or surgery. The amount of compensation depends on the extent and location of the disfigurement.

It’s important to note that the specific details and eligibility criteria for these benefits may vary based on individual circumstances and the severity of the injury.

Consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney in Pennsylvania can provide personalized guidance and ensure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to under the law.

What Are the Most Common Workers Compensation Injuries in Pennsylvania?

worker suffering an injury needs a Pennsylvania workers compensation lawyerPennsylvania’s most common workers’ compensation injuries include slips, trips and falls, overexertion injuries, and machinery-related accidents.

In Pennsylvania, like in many other states, workers’ compensation covers a wide range of injuries and illnesses that occur in the workplace. While the specific types and frequency of injuries may vary, Pennsylvania has several common workers’ compensation injuries. Here are some examples:

  • Slips, Trips, and Falls: Falls from heights, slips on wet surfaces, and tripping over objects are common causes of workplace injuries. These incidents can lead to fractures, sprains, head injuries, and back injuries.
  • Strains and Sprains: Overexertion, repetitive motion, and lifting heavy objects can result in strains and sprains to various body parts, such as the back, shoulders, neck, and wrists.
  • Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): MSDs encompass a range of conditions affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and joints. They often result from repetitive motions, poor ergonomics, or prolonged physical exertion. Examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and lower back pain.
  • Machine Accidents: Injuries can occur when operating heavy machinery or equipment without proper training or safety precautions. Crush injuries, amputations, and lacerations are commonly associated with machine accidents.
  • Falling Objects: Workers in construction, warehousing, and manufacturing industries are at risk of being struck by falling objects. These incidents can lead to head injuries, fractures, and internal injuries.
  • Burns and Chemical Exposures: Workers in industries involving hazardous materials or chemicals face the risk of burns, chemical exposures, and respiratory problems. This can occur in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and healthcare.
  • Electrical Injuries: Electricians, construction workers, and maintenance personnel are at risk of electrical shocks, burns, and electrocutions. These injuries can result from faulty equipment, exposed wires, or unsafe work practices.
  • Vehicle Accidents: Workers who operate vehicles as part of their job, such as truck drivers or delivery personnel, may experience injuries from motor vehicle accidents while on duty.
  • Repetitive Motion Injuries: Performing repetitive tasks over an extended period can lead to tendonitis, bursitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. This often affects workers in assembly lines, data entry, and other occupations involving repetitive motions.
  • Workplace Violence: Incidents of workplace violence can result in physical injuries, such as bruises, fractures, and emotional trauma. This can occur in various industries, including healthcare and retail.

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury, it’s crucial to report it promptly, seek medical attention, and consult a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer to understand your rights and pursue the benefits you’re entitled to under Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system.

Call us 24 hours a day or use our web form today to contact Munley Law for your free case evaluation. We charge nothing until we win your case.

Why Should I Hire a Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Attorney?

Hiring a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney can ensure you navigate the complex legal system effectively, secure the full benefits you’re entitled to, and protect your rights throughout the process. Workers’ compensation laws can be complex, and many deadlines must be kept. An experienced attorney handling Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims is well-versed in the state’s laws, regulations, and procedural requirements.

Your workers comp attorney will protect your rights and interests. A dedicated attorney by your side ensures your rights and interests are protected throughout the claims process. Your PA workers’ compensation attorney will advocate, negotiate with insurance companies, and work to maximize your benefits. Munley Law knows all the tactics insurance companies often use to minimize or deny claims, and we will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Investigating Your Claim

We can gather evidence and expert witnesses to build a strong case. A skilled workers’ compensation attorney knows the evidence needed to support your claim. We will investigate the circumstances of your injury, gather relevant medical records, interview witnesses if necessary, and collect other essential evidence to build a strong case.

Assist With the Claims Process

Your attorney will navigate the complex administrative procedures for you. The workers’ compensation claims process involves complex procedures, paperwork, and interactions with insurance companies and government agencies. Your experienced PA workers compensation attorney can handle all these tasks on your behalf, ensuring that everything is properly documented, filed, and submitted. This saves you time, reduces stress, and minimizes the risk of errors or omissions that could jeopardize your claim.

Responding to Denials

If your claim is denied or disputed, your lawyer will immediately act. We have the knowledge and experience to analyze the reasons for the denial, gather additional evidence, and navigate the appeals process effectively. Their representation significantly improves your chances of overturning a denial or resolving a dispute in your favor.

Evaluating settlement offers

In some cases, the insurance company may offer you a settlement. However, it’s essential to carefully evaluate any proposed settlement to ensure it adequately compensates you for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and any future needs. An attorney can review the settlement offer, negotiate on your behalf, and advise you on whether accepting the offer is in your best interest or if pursuing further legal action may be more beneficial.

Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging, especially when you’re still dealing with injuries, managing your recovery, and struggling with medical and household bills. Hiring an expert workers’ compensation attorney from Munley Law will help you level the playing field, protect your rights, and help you win your maximum monetary compensation for your Pennsylvania workers compensation case.

What Steps Should I Follow After I Suffer a Work Injury?

Worker receiving industrial injury in factory and colleague wrapping his injured head with bandageWhen you’re injured at work in Pennsylvania and plan to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits, it’s essential to follow specific steps to ensure a successful claim:

Report the Work-Related Injury Immediately

Inform your supervisor or employer about the injury as soon as possible, preferably in writing. Request an incident report and ensure it accurately documents the details of the injury. Obtain a statement from any witnesses who were present for the incident. You must provide your employer with official (written) notice of your injury within 120 days of the incident, or risk your claim being invalid.

Seek Medical Attention

Obtain prompt medical care for your injury from an approved healthcare provider under your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. Your employer cannot tell you which doctor you must go to; your employer must provide you with a list of at least three doctors to choose from. You must treat with that doctor for 90 days. After 90 days have passed, you can treat with any doctor of your choosing. Follow the prescribed treatment plan and attend all medical appointments.

Document and Preserve Evidence

Keep a detailed record of the incident, including date, time, location, and witnesses present. Take photographs of the accident scene if possible and any visible injuries. Retain copies of medical records, diagnostic tests, prescriptions, and receipts for all related expenses.

Complete the Workers’ Compensation Claim Forms

Obtain the necessary claim forms from your employer or their workers’ compensation insurance carrier. Fill out the forms accurately, providing detailed information about the injury and its impact on your ability to work.

Submit the Claim Forms

Submit the completed claim forms to your employer and their workers’ compensation insurance carrier within the designated timeframe. Keep copies of all documents for your records. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documentation from the workers’ compensation claims administrator. Provide all necessary medical records, statements, and other requested materials to support your claim.

Attend Independent Medical Examinations (IME)

If requested by the insurance carrier, attend scheduled IMEs with physicians selected by the insurance company. Cooperate and provide accurate information during the examination while ensuring your rights are protected.

Consult with an experienced PA Workers’ Compensation Attorney at Munley Law

An experienced workers’ compensation attorney will help to navigate the complex legal process, protect your rights, and maximize your benefits.

Do I Need to Prove Who is at Fault for the Workplace Accident?

No, you do not need to prove who was at fault to receive workers’ compensation benefits. One of the foundational principles of the workers’ compensation system in Pennsylvania is that it is a no-fault system. To qualify for benefits, an employee does not need to prove that their employer did something wrong or was negligent in causing the injury or illness. Likewise, with few exceptions, an employee’s negligence does not disqualify them from receiving benefits unless the injury was self-inflicted, involved illegal drug or alcohol use, or occurred during the commission of a crime.

The main criteria for receiving workers’ compensation benefits are that the injury or illness must be work-related, meaning it happened while you were doing something on behalf of your employer or during your employment. You must meet the state’s deadlines for reporting the injury and filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Workers’ compensation is designed to provide a swift and certain source of benefits to injured workers, including medical care, wage replacement for time off work due to the injury, and compensation for permanent impairment, without requiring a lengthy and uncertain legal process to determine fault. This system also benefits employers by providing a degree of legal immunity from most injury lawsuits by employees. In exchange for these guaranteed benefits, employees cannot sue their employers for work-related injuries.

What Is a Third Party Claim?

While workers’ compensation is designed to benefit employees injured on the job regardless of fault, it typically does not allow employees to sue their employers directly for negligence. However, if a third party’s actions or negligence contributed to the injury, the worker might have the right to pursue a third-party claim and receive workers’ compensation benefits.

Examples of Third-Party Injury Claims

Vehicle Accidents: If you’re injured in a vehicle accident while working, and another driver (not employed by your company) is at fault, you can file a workers’ compensation claim and a separate personal injury lawsuit against the driver.
Defective Products: If your injury is caused by a defective piece of equipment or machinery, you might have a claim against the manufacturer of that product.
Subcontractors and Independent Contractors: If you’re injured due to the negligence of a subcontractor or an independent contractor working at your job site, you may file a claim against those parties.
Premises Liability: If your job requires you to work on properties not owned by your employer, and you are injured due to unsafe conditions on the property, you could have a claim against the property owner.

Our Pennsylvania workers’ Compensation Lawyer is Ready to Help

Munley Law is ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery. There’s no charge for a consultation, and we do not collect a fee unless we win your case.

$32 Million Wrongful Death

$26 Million Truck Accident

$17.5 Million Car Accident

$12 Million Product Liability

$9 Million Truck Accident

$8 Million Truck Accident

$8 Million Truck Accident

$7.5 Million Auto Accident

$6.9 Million Garbage Truck Accident

$6.5 Million Traumatic Brain Injury

$5 Million Medical Malpractice

$5 Million Bus Accidents

Personal Injury Claims We Handle in Pennsylvania:

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