Workers’ compensation is a system that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. In Pennsylvania, this system is designed to provide financial and medical support to injured workers while they are unable to work. Despite its importance, there are many misconceptions surrounding workers compensation in Pennsylvania that can lead to confusion and misunderstanding.
One of the most common misconceptions is that workers’ compensation is only available to employees who suffer physical injuries on the job. In reality, workers compensation is also available to those who develop illnesses due to their job or suffer mental stress as a result of abnormal working conditions. Conditions such as lung disease, asbestosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, heart attacks, depression, PTSD and others may be compensable under the PA Workers Compensation Act.
Another misconception is that employees must prove that their employer was at fault in order to receive workers’ compensation benefits. This is not the case in Pennsylvania. As long as the injury or illness is job-related, the employee is eligible for benefits regardless of who was at fault. Even injuries that occur off premises are sometimes compensable.
Many people believe that workers’ compensation is only for blue-collar workers, such as factory workers or construction workers. However, this is not true. Workers’ compensation benefits are available to all employees in Pennsylvania, regardless of their job title, industry or length of employment. This includes white-collar workers, such as office workers, as well as part-time and temporary workers.
Another common misconception is that workers’ compensation benefits are limited to a few weeks or months. In reality, workers’ compensation benefits can last for a long time, depending on the severity of the injury or illness. Some employees may need to take time off work for months or even years, and workers compensation benefits can help to support them during this time.
Another misconception is that the process of filing a workers compensation claim is complicated and time-consuming. However, in Pennsylvania, the process is relatively straightforward. Employees who are injured or become ill on the job should report the incident to their employer as soon as possible, and their employer is then responsible for providing them with the appropriate forms and instructions. That said, if the claim is denied the process to litigate and appeal of that determination can be long and requires the help of a certified workers’ compensation attorney.
Many people also believe that workers’ compensation benefits are not enough to cover the costs of an injury or illness. However, in Pennsylvania, 100% of the medical expenses are covered by the employer. Wage loss is paid based on a formula. Generally, your employer will pay 2/3 of your pre-injury average weekly wage. However, this is subject to both a minimum and a maximum so you should consult a certified Montgomery County workers’ compensation attorney to make sure they are paying you the correct amount.
In conclusion, workers compensation is an important system that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. It is important to understand that workers’ compensation is a complicated area of the law. The insurance company has lawyers. Shouldn’t you? Call the Law Offices of James V. Monaghan for a free consultation from an attorney certified by the Pennsylvania Bar Association as a specialist in Workers’ Compensation.
