What Benefits am I Entitled to Under Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation?
Were you injured on the job in Pennsylvania? You need access to all available compensation so that you can pay bills and support your family. The Commonwealth has a comprehensive no-fault workers’ comp system in place. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we help injured workers secure the maximum financial support. Here, our Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyers provide an overview of the benefits that are available through a claim.
An Overview of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Pennsylvania
Following a serious job-related accident, it is imperative that injured workers are able to secure the full and proper benefits that they deserve under the law. Here is an overview of the workers’ comp benefits that may be available to you through a claim in Pennsylvania:
- Medical Care: To start, you are entitled to coverage for all medical treatment that is reasonably necessary and reasonably related to your work injury. Medical care may include doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, medications, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
- Wage Replacement: These are known as temporary disability benefits. Injured workers who are unable to work or have reduced earning capacity due to their injury may receive wage loss benefits. Payments typically cover two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage. However, there is a maximum statutory benefit under Commonwealth law.
- Specific Loss Benefits: If a worker suffers the permanent loss of a body part (such as a hand, foot, or finger) or loses the use of a body function (such as vision or hearing), they may qualify for specific loss benefits.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits: If a worker’s injury is so severe that they are permanently unable to return to any type of employment, they may qualify for PTD benefits. These are complicated cases and injured workers should be represented by a lawyer.
- Death Benefits (Survivor Benefits): If a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness, their surviving dependents may be entitled to death benefits. These benefits provide financial compensation to the spouse, children, or other dependents.
Be Proactive: Seek Medical Care, Report Your Accident Right Away, and File for Benefits
As explained by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, you must notify your employer of a work-related accident/injury within 21 days to be in a position to get the maximum available workers’ compensation benefits. You technically have up to 120 days to notify your employer of your work-related injury or work-related illness. However, you cannot seek full retroactive benefits unless you officially report the incident to your employer within 21 days.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top-Tier Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today
At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., our Pennsylvania workers’ comp attorneys are standing by, ready to help you get justice and the maximum available financial support. You are not alone. If you have any questions about what workers’ compensation benefits are available for your case, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation. With offices in Chambersburg and Gettysburg, we represent injured workers throughout the wider region in Pennsylvania.