Understanding Philadelphia’s Workers Compensation Laws

If you become disabled because of a job-related injury or if you contracted an illness because of the type of work you do, it is important for you financially to apply for workers compensation benefits. In Philadelphia, there are specific laws that you must abide by when applying for these benefits. The law firm of Larry Pitt & Associates wants to help you understand the workers comp laws of Pennsylvania and help you to settle your case stress-free. Our qualified workers comp attorneys will help you understand the whole complex process. We will then let you recover from your injuries while we take care of the rest.

Some important workers compensation laws in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania are:

• Workers compensation is mandatory in Pennsylvania.
• Workers compensation insurance may be provided by a competitive state fund, a private insurance carrier, or an employer may decide to supply his/her own insurance. Waivers are not accepted.
• The waiting period for compensation after an injury is seven days.
• Compensation is retroactive if the worker’s disability occurs for more than 14 days of the injury.
• An employee who is entitled to workers comp benefits will be provided with full medical benefits and there will be no time or financial limits.
• An employee must select his/her initial doctor from a list provided by the employer, but if there is no list provided, the employee may choose his/her doctor of choice.
• Death benefits will be paid to a worker's spouse, or spouse and children, based upon a percentage of the deceased's salary. It is subject to a cap. An allowance for the burial is also offered.
• Attorney fees are limited to 20%. In some situations, the attorney’s fee may be added to the award.

Workers compensation laws in Philadelphia are very specific to the state and it is good to discuss you claim with an attorney who knows and understands these laws. The knowledgeable workers comp attorneys of Larry Pitt & Associates have over 28 years experience dealing with these laws. We will make sure that you get the best settlement possible.