How Cold Weather Increases Accident Risks And Your Rights To Workers’ Compensation Benefits In Harrisburg

Whether working outdoors or indoors in poorly heated environments, snow, ice, and frigid temps can pose significant hazards. As winter sets in, the likelihood of on-the-job injuries in Harrisburg increases for workers in various industries.

Our Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer protects clients’ rights in these cases, providing the experienced legal representation you need to file a claim. Find out more about the risks and benefits available if an accident happens.

Winter Work-Related Accident Risks In Harrisburg

The Farmers Almanac warns residents of Dauphin County to brace themselves for several months of icy, frigid temperatures and periodically heavy snowfalls. Harsh winter weather poses significant risks for all Harrisburg residents, particularly those working outdoors and in warehouses, loading docks, or other areas exposed to the elements.

Cold weather increases the odds of on-the-job accidents, which can cause injuries that impact your health and ability to work for long after. They can happen in any industry, but common types of workers who most likely affected include:

• Construction workers;
• Landscapers and groundskeepers;
• Utility crews;
• Warehouse workers;
• Delivery drivers and workers in the transportation industry.

Common ways cold weather-related work injuries can happen include slips and falls, getting struck by or stuck between tools and equipment, frostbite, hypothermia, and motor vehicle accidents. Trench foot is also a risk and can cause debilitating pain, swelling, and blisters. It happens when your feet are exposed to prolonged cold and damp environments, such as outdoors, in poorly heated spaces, or in refrigerated areas.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits In Harrisburg for Cold Weather Injuries

If you suffer work-related injuries this winter, report it immediately to your employer. Make sure they complete an accident report, seek medical care from an employer-approved provider, and keep copies of all medical records.  Not taking these steps could jeopardize your rights in a Harrisburg workers’ compensation claim.

Workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania can help provide the financial support you need during recovery. Benefits you may be eligible for include:

• Medical benefits, covering all medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and therapy;
• Temporary disability benefits, which help replace lost wages while you recover from your injuries;
• Permanent disability benefits, in the event a cold weather accident causes long-term loss of function;
• Vocational rehabilitation, which can help you start a new career if your injuries keep you from returning to your prior occupation.

In the tragic event of fatal injuries, workers’ compensation in Harrisburg also provides benefits to surviving family members.

Contact Our Office For Help In Filing Your Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Claim

Ice, snow, and frigid temperatures make on-the-job accidents in Harrisburg more common throughout winter. Workers’ compensation benefits can help cover your lost wages, medical care, and other costs. For trusted legal help in filing a Harrisburg workers’ compensation claim, contact Ira H. Weinstock, P.C.

We guide you through complex insurance company processes and fight to get the maximum benefits you are entitled to. Contact our office today and request a consultation with our Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer.

Sources:

almanac.com/weather/longrange/pa/Harrisburg%2C%20Dauphin%20County

pa.gov/en/agencies/dli/programs-services/workers-compensation.html