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What Should You Know About Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Laws Before Filing a Case?

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Know About Philadelphia Workers' Compensation Laws Before Filing a Case

Know About Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Laws Before Filing a Case

If you have been injured at work or assessed with an illness because of the working conditions, the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Law will apply to you. Philadelphia has stringent policies relating to workers’ compensation. You have every right to report the injury and to claim compensation for the same.

You are entitled to either benefits or compensation or both, depending on the severity of the illness or injury you sustained. If you are a resident who wants to file for workers’ compensation, it may be a good idea to consult a good workers’ comp lawyer Philadelphia.

What Does the Act Say?

Philadelphia follows the Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Law. So if you have reason to believe that the work injury could have been avoided if the working conditions were better or if the employer was more careful, you can file for compensation or benefits in Philadelphia.

The law protects both employees and employers. Employers in Philadelphia must grant workers compensation provisions to their employees by mandate. Workers’ compensation insurance is granted to employees.

Who Is Exempted From Workers’ Compensation Provisions?

The Act covers most employers. Employers who are exempted include railroad workers, longshoremen, federal employees, domestic servants, and agricultural workers who do not work for more than 30 days or earn less than $1200 a year.

Some employers are granted an exemption due to their religious beliefs. Employers in Philadelphia can obtain workers’ compensation insurance through a licensed insurer or the State Workers Insurance Fund.

How to File for a Workers Compensation Claim

Work injuries in Pennsylvania resulted in 186 deaths in 2011 alone, according to the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CIFO). Philadelphia workers are required to file a notice of their injury to their employer within 21 days. The claim will be barred by default if you don’t file the notice in 120 days.

The employer and the insurer will then investigate the injury. They have 21 days to approve or reject the injury. The benefits available include:

  • Health care expenses for medical visits, medicines, lab tests, surgery, etc.;
  • Partial disability payments for up to 500 weeks;
  • Total disability payments if the disability is permanent;
  • Death benefits within 300 weeks to the employee’s spouse or minor children of the employee in case of death.

Common Workplace Injuries

The law relating to compensation is complicated, and it would be best to consult an experienced workers’ comp lawyer in Philadelphia. Most common injuries include brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, lacerations, respiratory issues, cancers, stress-related injuries, crushes, hearing and vision impairments.

It is essential to seek medical help if the injuries are severe. You may also want to ensure that you file or compensation on time. An experienced lawyer knows the intricacies of the law and can help you with your submissions and filings. A reasonable attorney can help you with all areas of the process.

Consider Getting Professional Help

Working with a reputed Philadelphia lawyer can help speed up the process. Lawyers are aware of the relevant legal provisions and can boost your chances of receiving compensation and benefits. Lawyers also help with drafting filings and can also represent you in court if necessary.

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