Seven Common Mistakes That Jeopardize Your Rights To Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation benefits in Harrisburg can help prevent you from having to pay out-of-pocket when on-the-job accidents happen. They cover all medical costs, up to two-thirds of lost wages, and provide payment for long-term disabilities.
While employers are required to provide these benefits under state and federal law, they are provided through insurers, who tend to dispute and downplay claims. Our Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer explains seven common mistakes that jeopardize your rights to benefits.
- Not reporting your injuries immediately after an accident.
When any type of accident happens on the job, it is important to report it to your employer immediately. The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act requires them to provide benefits for injured workers, but failing to report the incident in a timely manner is a common cause of denied claims.
- Not getting the appropriate medical care.
Regardless of the severity of your injuries, seek medical care from an approved provider as soon as possible. Make sure your doctor is aware that your injuries are work-related and that they document all of your symptoms.
- Returning to work, despite doctor restrictions.
Your doctor should provide a diagnosis and prognosis for your recovery, along with any work or activity restrictions. Reporting back to your job prior to being cleared to do so could impact your rights to benefits, now and in the future.
- Posting on social media.
In addition to adhering to work restrictions, follow your doctor’s guidance in avoiding other activities that could aggravate your injuries. Avoid posting on social media during this time, as it is the first place insurers look for posts and pictures that can be used to deny your claim.
- Not following up on the progress of your claim.
Make sure your employer files a claim for workers’ compensation benefits through the PA Department of Labor Industry and follow up on the progress of your case. The insurer generally has up to 21 days from the first notice of your injuries to accept or deny your claim.
- Not replying promptly to requests for additional information.
Be thorough in submitting evidence of your accident, your medical records, employment history, and other information needed in processing your claim. Be prompt in responding to any additional requests from insurers.
- Not being aware of deadlines for appealing denied claims.
You have 20 days after notice of a denied claim to file an appeal. Pay close attention to deadlines and get legal help right away.
Contact Our Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
On-the-job accidents can cause serious injuries. Workers’ compensation benefits, which are paid out through insurers, help cover medical expenses and lost wages. Ira H. Weinstock, P.C. has extensive experience dealing with insurance companies and their representatives. We fight to get you the maximum benefits you are entitled to. For caring, comprehensive legal service, call or contact our office online and request a consultation with our Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer today.
Sources:
legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/LI/uconsCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&yr=1915&sessInd=0&smthLwInd=0&act=0338.
dli.pa.gov/Individuals/Workers-Compensation/publications/Pages/LIBC-100-WC–The-Injured-Worker-Pamphlet.aspx
