Employment problem
The Boothwyn, Delaware County, Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorneys of Heavens Law Firm have established a reputation for excellence in the field of workers’ compensation law. We have helped numerous employees recover compensation for work-related illnesses and occupational disease. Our firm provides superior representation to workers in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia County, Delaware County, Chester County and throughout West Virginia.
Americans are known for their steely work ethic. Other countries say that they work to live while Americans “live to work.” In fact, many people work multiple jobs to live and support a family. During an economic downturn, employees take on multiple duties after their colleagues are laid off. This stress and exertion eventually takes a toll. Medical statistics estimate that over 72% of work injuries are caused by repeated physical strain and overexertion. Only 20 people die each year from traumatic accidents or catastrophic injuries. Sadly, most injuries go unreported as increasing numbers of employees fear losing their jobs. Common work-related injuries include:
- Burns, scars, or disfigurement
- Chronic back, neck, or knee pain
- Fatal accidents and wrongful death
- Amputation or total loss of function
- Traumatic brain or spinal cord injury
- Strains from pushing, pulling or lifting
- Repetitive stress and “overuse” injuries
- Slip-and-fall injuries and traffic accidents
- Exposure to toxic or hazardous chemicals
- Mental or emotional stress and impairment
State law protects workers who are injured on the job. In the event of a work-related injury or illness, the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act (Act) provides for the medical expenses and lost wages of employees who cannot return to work. The Act also provides death benefits to the worker’s dependent survivors.
Employers must provide workers’ compensation coverage for all their employees, including seasonal and part-time workers. Coverage begins on the date of hire, and medical benefits are payable from the first day of injury. Occupational diseases from exposure to toxic substances are only covered if they are caused or exacerbated by employment. This means that employees must have worked in a job where they were exposed hazardous materials like asbestos or coal for at least two years during the 10 years prior to disability.
In addition to the payment of surgical and medical services, workers are also entitled to total or partial disability benefits depending on the nature and extent of the injury. Employees who are fully disabled and cannot work are entitled to total disability benefits. Workers with less than 50% impairment are entitled to partial disability benefits for up to 500 weeks. Wage-loss benefits generally amount to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage.
In all cases, it is important to immediately report work-related injuries to an employer or supervisor. The sooner workers report the injury and file a claim, the faster they receive benefits. Workers must be disabled for more than seven days before they can receive payments. Lost wages are payable on the eighth day after the injury. Workers are entitled to temporary compensation for up to 90 days, even if the employer ultimately denies their claim. Employees can appeal the denial and ask for a hearing before a workers’ compensation judge.
If you or a loved one has suffered a job-related injury, contact the experienced Boothwyn, Delaware County, Philadelphia County, Chester County, Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyers at Heavens Law Firm right away. Failure to timely report an injury or file a claim may bar your right to benefits. Because workers’ compensation litigation is complex, it is important to hire a qualified attorney who can help you through the process. At Heavens Law Firm, we have successfully handled all types of work injury claims, recovering substantial awards for our clients at trial or through settlement. Let us help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Call 1-866-HEAVLAW for a free consultation or contact us online.
