What Types of Injuries are Covered by Workers' Compensation in Pennsylvania?

As explained by Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, workers’ comp is no-fault insurance. Virtually all employers are required to provide coverage to virtually all of their employees. All types of injuries are covered by workers’ comp—assuming they are work-related. Here, our Cumberland County workers’ comp attorney provides an overview of different types of injuries that are covered by workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania.

Sprains

A sprain is an injury to a ligament. It typically occurs when a joint is twisted or stretched beyond its normal range of motion, leading to pain, swelling, and bruising. Work-related sprains are common in occupations requiring heavy lifting, repetitive motion, and/or sudden movements.

Strains

A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. It is a type of injury that can happen as a result of overuse, overstretching, or excessive force. Notably, workers in Cumberland County who perform repetitive motions, lift heavy objects, or engage in strenuous physical activity are particularly vulnerable to strains.

Back Injuries

Back injuries in the workplace can range from minor muscle strains to severe spinal damage, often caused by heavy lifting, poor posture, or sudden movements. These injuries can result in chronic pain and reduced mobility. In some cases, a back injury can require prolonged time off from work.

Broken Bones

A broken bone is always an emergency. Immediate medical attention for a broken bone is an absolute must. Workplace fractures are common in industries involving construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Though, they can happen in any injury in Pennsylvania.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) results from a sudden impact, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head, which can disrupt normal brain function. In the workplace, TBIs often stem from falls, falling objects, or vehicle accidents. The severity of a brain injury can vary dramatically.

Vision Loss

Work-related vision loss can be caused by direct trauma, exposure to hazardous chemicals, or prolonged strain from excessive screen use. Injuries such as corneal abrasions, retinal detachment, or burns from chemical splashes can lead to partial or total blindness.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a common occupational hazard caused by prolonged exposure to loud noise, sudden explosive sounds, or direct ear trauma. Workers in construction, manufacturing, and aviation are particularly at risk of noise-induced hearing damage.

Spinal Cord Damage

Any amount of spinal cord trauma is a catastrophic injury by definition. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, workers may experience loss of mobility, chronic pain, or loss of bodily function. A worker who sustained spinal cord damage may never be able to return to the job.

Illnesses

Workplace illnesses are often caused by exposure to hazardous substances, poor air quality, or repetitive stress on the body over time. Conditions such as respiratory diseases, skin disorders, and occupational cancers can develop due to prolonged contact with chemicals, dust, or pathogens.

Contact Our Cumberland County Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today

At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., our Cumberland County workers’ comp attorney is here to help. If you or your family member was hurt on the job, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case review. We represent injured workers throughout Cumberland County, including in Carlisle, Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, Lower Allen, and New Cumberland.