How Do I Know if I Have a Worker's Comp Claim?

Were you injured while on the job in Gettysburg? It is crucial that you are able to get all of the medical services that you need, as well as the full available financial support. This raises an important question: How do I know if I have a workers’ comp claim? The best way that you can get an answer is to speak to a lawyer. Our Gettysburg workers’ compensation attorney can help if you have a workers’ comp claim in Pennsylvania.

You Must Be Unable to Work or Need Medical Care

You may have a workers’ comp claim even if you do not miss time from work. The law provides two primary benefits: medical coverage and wage-loss compensation. If your condition requires medical treatment related to work (even without lost wages), you may still qualify. If your injury or illness keeps you from working or reduces your earning capacity, wage-loss benefits may be available. Too often, workers assume that minor injuries do not qualify. In Pennsylvania, this is incorrect. Many claims begin as small issues and develop into more serious conditions. If your job contributed to the need for treatment or caused lost income, you have the right to file for workers’ comp.

You Must Have a Work-Related Injury or Illness

Workers’ comp provides no-fault benefits. That is not to say that your claim will automatically be approved. To have a valid workers’ compensation claim in Pennsylvania, the injury or illness must arise in the course and scope of employment. The requirement is defined under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act (77 P.S. § 411(1)). To be clear, you do not need to prove employer negligence. You only need to show that your condition is connected to your job duties. If your injury happened while performing your regular duties, traveling for work, handling assigned tasks, or being exposed to hazardous conditions, you likely meet this requirement.

Timely Reporting is Required

You must report your injury or illness to your employer within 120 days, but you should never wait that long. Under the law, the failure to provide notice on time can bar your claim entirely. The earlier you report the issue, the stronger your case will be. Notice can be verbal, but a written notice is far better because it documents the date and facts. Even if you are unsure whether your condition is work-related, report it. If you are not sure how to, a Gettysburg workers’ comp lawyer can help.

Schedule a Free Case Review With Our Gettysburg Workers’ Comp Attorney

At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger, P.C., our Gettysburg, PA workers’ compensation lawyer invests time, resources, and attention to detail into each and every case. If you have any questions about whether or not you have a viable workers’ comp claim, we are here to help. Contact us right away to set up your completely confidential, no-obligation initial appointment. We handle workers’ comp cases throughout the region from our office in Gettysburg.