How To Protect Your Rights To Workers’ Compensation Benefits In Harrisburg
On-the-job injuries can happen in any occupation. Workers’ compensation benefits in Harrisburg act as a safety net, helping to offset the costs of your medical care while reimbursing you for portions of your lost wages. Unfortunately, filing a claim is not always easy, and it is not uncommon for benefits to be denied. Our experienced Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer offers tips on how to protect your rights both before and after work-related injuries happen.
Know Your Rights When It Comes To Workers’ Compensation In Harrisburg
Workers’ compensation offers benefits for both employers and their employees. For workers, it acts as a form of insurance, covering medical costs and providing cash benefits when on-the-job injuries result in lost wages. It also provides additional payments if you suffer disabilities that prevent you from working or performing certain types of tasks on the job. For employers, workers’ compensation coverage protects them from being sued by employees.
Under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, most employers are required to provide these benefits. They are available whether you work full or part-time or on a regular basis. To protect your rights in the event the need arises, follow these tips:
- Familiarize yourself with your employer’s worker’s compensation policies, which should be posted in employee areas;
- Take routine precautions on the job and avoid unnecessary risks;
- Report potential hazards to your supervisor immediately;
- Avoid horseplay and drinking or taking drugs while on the job.
Not being familiar with workers’ compensation reporting requirements, failing to follow standard safety procedures, and behaving recklessly or being impaired can all result in denial of your benefits.
Protecting Yourself When On The Job Injuries In Harrisburg Happen
Despite being careful and taking all appropriate precautions, on-the-job injuries can still happen. Overuse or repetitive stress, falls, electrocutions, exposure to hazardous substances, and being struck by or against objects are all common causes. These can impact your health and your financial security for years afterward.
Workers’ compensation benefits in Harrisburg provide important benefits in this situation. To protect yourself and your rights in filing a claim, follow these tips:
- Report any type of on-the-job accident immediately;
- Seek medical care from an employer-approved doctor as soon as possible;
- Make sure your doctor is aware that your injuries are work-related;
- Follow their instructions regarding treatment and activity or work restrictions;
- Follow up with your employer to ensure they filed a workers’ compensation claim;
- Respond to any communications you receive from workers’ compensation or requests for additional information;
- If your claim is denied, be aware that you have the right to file an appeal.
Request A Consultation With Our Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
At Ira H. Weinstock, P.C., we have extensive experience dealing with workers’ compensation and helping those who are injured on the job get the benefits they are entitled to. For trusted legal guidance in filing a claim, call or contact our office online and request a consultation with our Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer today.
Sources:
usa.gov/workers-compensation
dli.pa.gov/Individuals/Workers-Compensation/publications/Pages/WC%20Act/WC-Act-Landing-Page.aspx