Workplace accidents can happen at any time, even in environments that seem safe. If you’re injured at work in Pennsylvania, the steps you take immediately after the injury directly affect your workers’ compensation claim. Munley Law attorney Bob Munley walks through what to do — and what benefits you’re entitled to — in this Fox56 “Making the Case” segment.
If you’ve been hurt at work in Pennsylvania, the actions you take in the hours and days after the injury can determine whether your workers’ compensation claim is approved or disputed. Here’s what to do.
Document the accident immediately:
As soon as the injury occurs, document everything. File a written report with your employer that describes what happened, where and when it occurred, and how the injury happened. Include the names of any eyewitnesses. The more detail you capture right away, the harder it is for an insurance company to challenge your account later.
Report the injury even if it seems minor:
Don’t wait to see how things develop. Report it now. Injuries that seem small at first can worsen significantly over time. Waiting to report gives the insurance company grounds to argue the injury wasn’t serious or didn’t happen at work. Reporting immediately protects you.
See the company-approved doctor:
Pennsylvania requires injured workers to treat with a doctor from their employer’s approved list, at least initially. Your employer is required to provide you with that list after you report the injury. You’ll receive insurance company information and a claim number, and your workers’ comp benefits should begin from there.
Benefits You May Be Entitled To
- Lost wages while you’re unable to work
- Medical expenses related to your work injury
- Specific loss benefits for permanent injury to a body part
- Death benefits for families of workers killed on the job
Know Your Rights If Something Goes Wrong
If your employer denies your claim, pressures you to return to work before you’ve healed, or questions whether your injury happened at work, you have legal rights — and an attorney can help you enforce them. Don’t accept a denial as the final answer without speaking to a workers’ comp lawyer first.
Injured at work in Pennsylvania? Call Munley Law for a free workers’ compensation consultation. No fee unless we win.
