3 top tips about workers comp Philadelphia employees might not know.
It’s your first day on the job. You’re learning the ropes and meeting new co-workers. But no one probably talks to you about workers compensation. You’re probably not informed as to what might happen if you get hurt at work. Things are busy, so why focus on the what if’s? That’s the general attitude of most managers. But as an employee, there is a lot you need to know about workers comp. In this field, we find that most employees have no comprehension of their rights when it comes to workers compensation. So here are our three top tips about workers comp Philadelphia employees need to know. Don’t leave everything up to your employer – you have a part in the process, too.
1. Take the First Steps
As an employee eligible for workers comp in Philadelphia (Pennsylvania law applies), you have rights when it comes to workers compensation claims. However, you need to do your part. If an accident happens at work – tell your supervisor immediately. If it’s a simple slip and fall on a slick floor or something more serious, let management know right away. In the state of Pennsylvania, you are required to report an injury within 21 days or else you might be denied some workers compensation coverage. If you don’t report it within 120 days, your employer could deny all workers compensation benefits.
You also need to seek emergency medical attention for the incident. Go to the doctor, either your primary care physician or the ER, to make sure you are okay. If you need immediate medical care, then go right away. After a full physical examination, the treating physician can tell you whether you can go back to work or not. Even if you feel fine, if you have an accident, it’s important to get checked out. Medical symptoms can flare up hours later, so you want to protect yourself mentally and legally.
2. Know Your Rights
As an employee covered by workers comp Philadelphia locals have rights in these situations. You are entitled to:
-
Receive reasonable and necessary medical treatment
-
Wage loss benefits (2/3 of your average wages if out of work more than 7 days)
-
Benefits for injuries resulting in permanent disabilities
-
Benefits for family and dependents (in the case of a fatal accident)
-
Negotiate a lump sum settlement
Just make sure to follow the first steps listed in tip #1 to start the process.
Workers comp Philadelphia employees have access to should cover you for a variety of physical injuries sustained at work including:
-
Fractures, sprains, strains, herniated or bulging discs
-
Nerve damage
-
Brain damage from head trauma or other causes
-
Repetitive injuries (like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)
-
Hearing loss
-
Burns
-
Occupational diseases
…and more. You should also be covered for injuries or diseases that are made worse because of your duties at work.
3. Get a Workers Comp Philadelphia Lawyer
We get a lot of calls with people asking if they really need a lawyer for their claim for workers comp in Philadelphia. Ultimately, the decision should be up to you. Don’t let your employer force you to settle internally if you’d rather have a workers comp Philadelphia lawyer represent you. Do whatever makes you feel most comfortable. We always recommend hiring a workers comp attorney. We can make sure you’re getting treated and compensated fairly. We can make sure you’re getting paid the correct amount. We can explain workers comp laws and your rights to you. We can make sure your employer and the insurance company are providing accurate information to you and each other.
We can advise you on when and how much is an acceptable lump sum settlement.
Workers Comp Philadelphia | Workers Comp In Philadelphia