Philadelphia is, after all, the city of Brotherly Love, and the birthplace of our great nation. It’s where we declared our independence and rang in a new era of global freedom. The problem with our great nation is that it is often controlled by people who do not value that freedom whatsoever except where it pertains to the fattening of their bankrolls. In some cases, work safety standards may be compromised, and individuals can get hurt on the job. But there is good news for employees who have sustained a workplace injury.
According to the Philadelphia Department of Labor, nearly every Pennsylvania worker is covered by the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act. Workers comp Philadelphia lawyers realize that not enough employees understand the rights and compensation they may be entitled to if they suffer from an injury at work. Many blame themselves for an injury or work accident, or wait too long before reporting any injury or work-related illness, and do not seek the legal help they need. That’s why we at Thomas More Holland Law have put together a few basic guidelines that will inform you about the next steps you need to take when making a workers comp claim:
3 Steps to Getting Compensated By Workers Comp Philadelphia
- Know Your Rights
The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act ensures that workers harmed at work may receive paid benefits for their losses, and that the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier will provide the compensation. Employees may be entitled to paid wage losses and paid medical costs. Coverage begins for employees on the date of hire. In the rare case that they aren’t, they are covered by the Federal system. No worker is unprotected, especially with the legal assistance of workers comp Philadelphia lawyers. Each worker has rights.
- Notify Your Employer
You may ask yourself how you can be sure to get compensated. According to the PA Department of Labor, “prompt reporting is key.” Any work-related illness or injury should be reported immediately to a supervisor/employer. This ensures that your claim not be called under question, delayed or denied. Even if it may seem insignificant or inconvenient at the time, think of notifying your employer first. Documentation is crucial. Inform your employer of the date and place of injury.
- Contact a Qualified Philadelphia Workers Compensation Attorney
It is common for companies to look out for their own interests. But what about your rights? We encourage you to reach out to a law firm that specialises in workers comp rights in order to receive the best legal representation Philadelphia has to offer.
What if I am offered a lump sum settlement: Tom Holland is experienced in evaluating lump sum offers. Early lump sum settlement offers may be encouraging, but Tom Holland will be able to help not leave anything on the table. If the disability continues to be treated without a definitive diagnosis and/or prognosis, prompt settlement may not be prudent. When and if to settle is your decision to make, but BEWARE. What’s the hurry?
Please be cautious of an early settlement offer from a claims adjustor who suggests you do not need a lawyer. Our law office specializes in representing injured employees, and we know worker’s compensation law inside and out. You are allowed to represent yourself in worker’s compensation proceedings, but remember that the litigation is complex and your employer will be represented by an experienced attorney. Don’t walk into court, unprepared and outnumbered.
Contact the workers comp Philadelphia attorneys at Thomas More Holland today for a complimentary consultation. Call us at (215) 839-3075.
Workers Comp Philadelphia | Philadelphia Workers Comp