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Doylestown Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If You Have Been Injured at Work, Larry Pitt & Associates is Your Answer For A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Doylestown, PA

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Doylestown is a historic part of Pennsylvania. Over the decades, Doylestown has redeveloped the community and is now a respected tourist destination. The Doylestown Historic District, Pugh Dungan House, Fonthill, Fountain House, Oscar Hammerstein II Farm, James-Lorah House, Mercer Museum, Moravian Pottery, and Tile Works, and Shaw Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As with any bustling and growing community, Doylestown has its share of businesses and people who commute to work nearby. Doylestown, therefore, is not immune to workplace injuries.

Experiencing a work injury is a difficult situation that can affect both you and your loved ones. Not only do work-related injuries result in overwhelming medical bills and expenses, but they also cut off your sources of income. This, coupled with the daily expenses, can make it feel like moving on is impossible. However, there is still hope. Pennsylvania has strong workers’ compensation laws that provide support for victims and their families after an unexpected and incapacitating workplace accident.

At Larry Pitt & Associates, we have decades of experience providing legal counsel on workers’ compensation matters. We understand that every case is unique and requires special attention. If you or a loved one has suffered a workplace injury, it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable workers’ comp attorney who can handle your claim with your employer or insurance firm. If you’re a resident of Doylestown, you can take advantage of our services. Contact our law offices today for a free case evaluation with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. We’ll make sure you claim all your rights and workers’ comp benefits – after all, they’re rightfully yours.

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Call Our Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Lawyers in Doylestown, PA

Here at Larry Pitt & Associates, our compassionate and experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Doylestown, PA, represent injured workers and can help you and your family recover the benefits and obtain the compensation that you may be entitled to under the law. We will not let your workers’ comp claim get undervalued or unfairly denied.

Learn how we can help you by scheduling your FREE consultation by calling (888)-PITT-LAW or (877) 748-8529 or by sending us a private message with our easy-to-use contact us box. Larry Pitt & Associates is the answer to your search for an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Doylestown. We are here and ready to help you file your workers’ compensation case.

What Is Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Law?

In Pennsylvania, there exists a comprehensive set of regulations and statutes pertaining to workers’ compensation. These laws aim to safeguard the rights and entitlements of individuals who sustain workplace injuries or illnesses within the state. The primary objective of this legislation is to offer financial assistance, medical care, and other benefits to affected workers, ensuring their protection and support in the event of a work-related incident.

Key aspects of Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law include:

  1. Coverage: Most employers in Pennsylvania are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to provide benefits to their employees. This coverage applies to both full-time and part-time employees, regardless of the size of the employer’s workforce.

  2. Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses: Workers’ comp law covers injuries and illnesses arising out of and during employment. This includes work accidents, repetitive motion injuries, occupational diseases, and psychological conditions resulting from work-related factors.

  3. No-Fault System: Pennsylvania operates under a no-fault workers’ compensation system, which means that employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who is at fault for the injury or illness. In exchange, employees generally give up the right to sue their employer for damages in a personal injury lawsuit.

  4. Benefits: Pennsylvania workers’ compensation provides various benefits to injured employees, including medical benefits, wage loss benefits, specific loss benefits for permanent impairments, vocational rehabilitation services, and death benefits for surviving dependents in fatal work accidents.

  5. Claims Process: Injured employees must notify their employer of the injury or illness as soon as possible. Employers are then required to report the incident to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier. The injured worker must file a formal claim with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers’ Compensation within specific time limits.

  6. Dispute Resolution: Disputes over workers’ compensation claims, including denied claims or disputes regarding the extent of benefits, are typically resolved through the Pennsylvania workers’ compensation system. This may involve mediation, hearings before a workers’ compensation judge, and, if necessary, appeals to the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board and the courts.

Employees must understand their rights and obligations under the workers’ compensation law. Consulting with an experienced workers’ comp attorney can provide guidance and ensure injured workers receive the benefits they deserve while navigating the complexities of the legal process.

How To Know If Workers' Compensation Covers You

Under Pennsylvania law, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This means that the workers’ compensation law covers nearly every worker – with few exceptions. This includes full-time and part-time workers, seasonal, temporary, management, greeters, or other Philadelphia, PA employees.

It also does not matter if it was your first day on the job or your last day packing up your stuff. There are no waiting periods, and any injury that occurs within the scope of your employment will trigger coverage.

Types Of Injuries Covered By Workers' Compensation

Workers’ compensation laws in Pennsylvania are designed to provide benefits and protection for workers who sustain work injuries or develop illnesses arising out of and in the course of their employment. Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of injuries, illnesses, and conditions that can occur in the workplace.

Here are some examples of work injuries that are typically covered by workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania:

  1. Accidental Injuries:

    • Slip and fall accidents
    • Strains, sprains, and fractures
    • Repetitive motion injuries
    • Machinery or equipment accidents
    • Burns and electrocutions
    • Falling objects causing injuries
  2. Occupational Illnesses:

    • Exposure to toxic substances (chemicals, asbestos, etc.)
    • Respiratory diseases (occupational asthma, silicosis)
    • Occupational hearing loss
    • Occupational dermatitis or skin conditions
    • Occupational cancers
    • Occupational stress-related conditions
  3. Pre-Existing Conditions Aggravated by Work:

    • Pre-existing back or neck conditions exacerbated by work activities
    • Pre-existing conditions worsened by repetitive motions or heavy lifting
    • Chronic conditions exacerbated by workplace conditions
    • Injuries resulting from slip and fall accidents on the job, aggravating pre-existing conditions

It is recommended to consult with experienced workers’ comp attorneys. The best workers’ compensation lawyers can assess your specific situation and determine the eligibility of your injury or illness for workers’ compensation benefits. They can guide you through the claims process, gather necessary evidence, and advocate for your rights to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to under Pennsylvania law.

How Much Does Workers' Comp Pay

Pennsylvania workers compensation act states that injured workers are entitled to lost wage benefits equal to two-thirds of their weekly wage for a work-related injury. However, there are minimum and maximum adjustments provided in the Act.

Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation rate takes into account the employee’s average weekly wage (AWW) and the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW). To determine AWW, you average the employee’s wages over 52 weeks. To determine SAWW, you average all employees’ wages in Pennsylvania over the previous 52 weeks. These are some basic guidelines. Your workers’ comp attorney can thoroughly explain the wag-loss benefit you are entitled to:

  • The amount of money you get depends on how much money you make.
  • If you make less than the average person in Pennsylvania, you get 66 2/3% (two-thirds) of your weekly pay.
  • If you make more than the average person in Pennsylvania, you get the average weekly pay.
  • You can get workers’ compensation benefits for up to 500 weeks.

Our experienced work injury lawyers will assist you with these calculations.

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Workers' Compensation Benefits

Workers’ compensation provides coverage for various financial losses arising from a work-related injury or illness. These benefits aim to compensate injured workers for the economic impact they experience due to their inability to work or the additional expenses incurred.

Here are some of the financial losses covered by Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation law:

Medical Benefits & Expenses:

All reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to the work injury or illness, including doctor visits, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and rehabilitation services; medical costs of diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, and laboratory tests, and medical supplies and equipment required for treatment or recovery.

Lost Wages Benefits:

If your injury or illness causes you to miss work, you may be eligible for lost wages benefits. The amount of wage loss benefits depends on the severity of your disability and your average weekly wage. There are four types of wage loss benefits:

a. Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If your injury prevents you from working in any capacity, you may receive a portion of your pre-injury wages as TTD benefits until you can return to work.

b. Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If your injury allows you to work in a reduced capacity or with work restrictions, but your earnings are lower than before, you may receive TPD benefits, which provide a percentage of the wage difference.

c. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If your injury results in permanent impairments, but you can still work in some capacity, you may be entitled to PPD benefits, which provide compensation based on the degree of impairment.

d. Specific Loss Benefits: If you suffer the loss or loss of use of a specific body part, such as a limb or an eye, you may be eligible for specific loss benefits, which compensate for the permanent loss.

Permanent Disability Benefits:

Partial Disability Benefits: If your work-related injury or illness results in a permanent partial loss or impairment of a body part or function, you may be entitled to receive benefits based on the specific impairment rating determined by medical evaluation.

Total Disability Benefits: If your work-related injury or illness results in a total and permanent disability that prevents you from engaging in any gainful employment, you may be eligible for lifetime total disability benefits.

Vocational Rehabilitation:

If you’ve suffered an injury or illness that prevents you from resuming your previous job, vocational rehabilitation services may be available to you. These services can offer career guidance, assistance in finding new employment opportunities, and retraining programs to help you acquire new skills. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and resources you need to secure a fulfilling and suitable job.

Death Benefits:

In the unfortunate event of a work-related fatality, workers’ compensation may provide death benefits to dependents of the deceased worker, including a surviving spouse, children, or other eligible dependents. These benefits typically cover funeral expenses and a portion of the worker’s average weekly wage.

What Should I Do If I Have Been Injured At Work?

If you have been injured at work in Pennsylvania, it is crucial to take specific steps to protect your health, well-being, and legal rights. Here are the key actions you should consider:

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately:

    Your health and well-being should be your top priority. If you are seriously injured, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or visiting the nearest emergency room. Report the incident to your employer for less severe work injuries and request medical treatment from an authorized healthcare provider.

  2. Report the Injury to Your Employer:

    Pennsylvania law requires you to report your work-related injury to your employer within 21 days. However, it is best to notify your employer as soon as possible, preferably in writing, providing details of the incident, date, time, and nature of the injury or illness.

  3. Document the Incident:

    Make sure to document the details of the incident, including any witnesses present and any unsafe conditions or hazards that contributed to your injury. Take photographs, and keep copies of any relevant documents, such as work accident reports or medical records.

  4. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim:

    In Pennsylvania, you must file a workers’ comp claim within 120 days of the injury or the onset of an occupational illness. Notify your employer of your intent to file a claim and follow their instructions on the claims process.

  5. Follow Medical Advice and Attend Appointments:

    Cooperate with your healthcare providers, attend all medical appointments, and follow their recommended treatment plan. This ensures your well-being and strengthens your workers’ compensation claim by establishing a documented medical record.

  6. Keep a Record of Expenses and Lost Wages:

    Keep track of all medical expenses, including medical bills, prescriptions, and transportation costs related to your injury. Also, document any time missed from work and the resulting loss of wages. This information will be essential for your workers’ compensation claim.

  7. Consult with a Skilled Workers’ Compensation Attorney:

    Seek legal representation from a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney. This can significantly benefit your case. Talk to a PA workers’ compensation lawyer and never talk to your employer’s insurance company until you have a lawyer on your side

Remember, each case is unique, and it is essential to consult with an attorney specializing in workers’ compensation law. They can evaluate your specific circumstances and provide guidance. They will advocate for your rights and help you navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation system to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Pennsylvania, your employer has the right to select the healthcare providers for your initial treatment. However, after 90 days, you may be able to choose your own doctor.

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can guide you through the appeals process and protect your rights.

If you have work restrictions due to your injury and your employer is unable to accommodate them, you may be entitled to wage loss benefits based on your reduced earning capacity.

The duration of benefits depends on the nature and extent of your injury. Temporary benefits may be available until you can return to work, while permanent disability benefits can be long-term or even lifetime benefits.

In some cases, you may be eligible for a lump sum settlement, which provides a one-time payment to resolve your workers’ compensation claim. Consulting with an attorney is crucial to ensure you make an informed decision.

It is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated due to your claim, consult with an attorney to protect your rights.

Generally, injuries that occur during your commute are not covered by workers’ compensation. However, there are exceptions, such as when you were performing work-related tasks or if you were on a business trip.

In Pennsylvania, you generally have the right to request a second opinion from a specialist of your choice. However, it is advisable to consult with an attorney and follow the proper procedures to ensure coverage for the visit.