What is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Hurt on the job in Pennsylvania? You have the right to seek benefits through a workers’ comp claim. Workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania is a form of no-fault insurance that must be provided for virtually every employee. Here, our Gettysburg workers’ compensation attorney provides a comprehensive guide to workers’ comp in Pennsylvania.

Workers’ Compensation is a No-Fault System in Pennsylvania

As explained by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, workers’ compensation insurance in the Commonwealth is designed to provide benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses, no matter who was at fault. In exchange for these benefits, employees generally waive the right to sue their employer for negligence through a personal injury lawsuit.

Employers are Required to Carry Coverage (Only Limited Exceptions)

With very few exceptions, Pennsylvania law mandates that all employers carry workers’ compensation insurance. Not only does this include full-time workers, but it also includes part-time employees and seasonal employees. Employers may obtain coverage through a private insurer, the State Workers’ Insurance Fund (SWIF), or by applying for self-insured status. An unlawfully uninsured employer can face serious sanctions.

Medical and Financial Benefits are Available to Injured Workers

Injured workers may be entitled to several key types of benefits under Pennsylvania’s system. To start, these include payment for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment that is related to the work injury or work illness. Beyond that, injured workers can seek wage-loss compensation for missed work due to a temporary or permanent disability. If you do have a permanent impairment related to your workplace injury, it is imperative that you seek professional legal representation.

The Timeline for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

An injured employee should notify their employer within 21 days of the incident to secure the maximum available benefits, though they have up to 120 days to report it. The employer must then file a First Report of Injury with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. Once it is filed, insurers typically have 21 days to accept or deny the claim. If benefits are denied, an injured worker has the right to file an appeal.

What to Know About Legal Rights and Dispute Resolution Provisions

In Pennsylvania, employees have the right to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney and to challenge claim denials or improper benefit amounts. Disputes may be resolved through litigation, mediation, or settlement. If you have any questions about seeking benefits after a workers’ comp claim was delayed or denied, an experienced Gettysburg work injury lawyer can help you seek the maximum available financial benefits.

Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Gettysburg Workers’ Comp Attorney Today

At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., our Gettysburg work injury lawyers are aggressive advocates for justice. If you or your loved one was hurt on the job, we are here to help you navigate workers’ comp. Our team fights for the maximum benefits for workers. Call us now or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review. With an office in Gettysburg and another one in Chambersburg, we handle workers’ comp claims and workers’ comp appeals throughout the entire region.