What Should I Do if I am Injured at Work in Pennsylvania?

Were you hurt on the job in Franklin County or elsewhere in Pennsylvania? It is imperative that you take immediate action to protect yourself, your health, and your legal rights. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we put injured workers first. Here, our Franklin County workers’ comp attorneys explain what you should do if you are hurt at work in Pennsylvania.

Step #1: Go to the Doctor (Medical Needs are the Top Priority)

If you suffer an injury while on the job in Franklin County, seeking medical attention should be your top priority. Your health, your safety, and your well-being matter. They come first. Under Pennsylvania law, workers have the right to see a doctor after a workplace accident—and you should not wait. Even if the injury appears minor, it can worsen over time. A prompt medical evaluation ensures you receive proper care, and it also creates a record of your injury.

Step #2: Tell Your Employer What Happened (A Legal Requirement)

You have to notify your employer of your work injury in Franklin County. It is a legal requirement. Under Pennsylvania law, employees must report workplace injuries to their employer within 120 days—but waiting that long can jeopardize your claim. To secure the strongest possible case for benefits, notify your employer as soon as possible. If you wait more than 21 days, you may not be able to get full workers’ compensation benefits.

Step #3: Verify That Your Employer Reports the Injury Properly

After being notified, your employer is responsible for filing a “First Report of Injury” with their workers’ compensation insurance carrier. The document officially starts the claims process. It is essential to confirm that your employer has submitted this form—and that means you can and should request a copy for your records. If they fail to report your injury, call a lawyer.

Step #4: File for Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers injured in Pennsylvania have the right to file for workers’ compensation benefits, covering medical expenses and lost wages. Your employer should provide you with the necessary forms to begin your claim. Fill them out completely and submit them on time to avoid a delay. You do not have to complete the forms on your own. A Franklin County workers’ comp lawyer can help.

Step #5: If Your Claim is Denied, Appeal it

Unfortunately, some valid workers’ compensation claims are denied due to incomplete paperwork, disputes over the injury, or insurance company tactics. If your claim is denied, you have the right to challenge the adverse decision. Do not assume that a denial is the final word—many workers successfully secure benefits on appeal. Consult with a Franklin County workers’ comp lawyer.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Franklin County Workers’ Comp Lawyers

At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., our Franklin County workers’ comp attorney has the experience you can trust. If you have any questions about the claims process, please do not hesitate to contact us today. We represent injured workers throughout Franklin County, including in Chambersburg, Waynesboro, Greencastle, and State Line.