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If you were hurt while on the job in Allentown, you can seek workers’ compensation benefits through your employer. Do not try to pay your expenses on your own while you recover. The law empowers you to file a claim and receive a settlement.
Unfortunately, there are times when workers’ compensation claims do not go smoothly. Insurance companies are not on your side, and they will often try to get you to settle for less or end your benefits early.
You do not have to succumb to their demands. Get in touch with one of Pond Lehocky’s experienced Allentown workers’ compensation lawyers to file a claim and fight for fair compensation.
Types of Workplace Injuries You Can File a Claim for in Allentown
In Allentown, there are several workplace injuries for which you can file a workers’ compensation claim, including:
- Slips and falls
- Cuts, lacerations, burns, sprains, strains, and broken bones
- Injuries caused by dangerous equipment malfunctions
- Exposure to hazardous materials or chemicals
If your injury was sustained while you were on the job, it is likely to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Even if your injury does not exactly align with the list above, as long as you can show and prove that your injury was due to your work, you can file for benefits. Since the largest employment sectors in Allentown are in healthcare, manufacturing, and warehousing, these injuries are more common, however the amount of workers’ comp you can receive varies significantly.
There are no average numbers, but a lawyer can provide a more accurate estimate after reviewing your case. Knowing how much to reasonably expect is important because it helps you determine if the insurance company is actually giving you the compensation you deserve.
You only get three years to file a claim for a workplace injury in Pennsylvania. Though that may seem like a long time, it is best not to wait until the last minute. The sooner you file a claim, the better.
What Damages Will Workers’ Compensation Benefits Cover?
You can recover compensation for the damages you sustained due to your workplace injuries. Here are a few of the most common damages people file claims for.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capability
Getting hurt on the job will likely lead to you taking time off from work to recover. While you focus on getting better after the accident, taking this time will lead to lost wages and reduced earning capability. With workers’ compensation, you can recover these lost wages and any potential reduced earnings due to your injury through your settlement.
Medical Expenses
Your accident at work can lead to injuries that require intense care, hospital visits, doctor visits, medical equipment, physical therapy, and medication. All of this medical care is necessary for your recovery, but it can add up very quickly.
You do not have to pay for these medical expenses out of pocket. Instead, you can receive reimbursement and coverage for these bills through workers’ compensation.
Temporary or Permanent Disability Benefits
Your injury may be so severe that you will have to receive temporary disability benefits. In that case, your workers’ compensation coverage will help you offset the cost of living expenses, and medical treatments until you make your recovery. In circumstances involving permanent disability, it is possible to receive additional benefits that can help you further.
Death Benefits
If your loved one was killed at work, you can recover death benefits on their behalf through workers’ compensation. These benefits will assist you financially during this incredibly difficult time. You can utilize them for living expenses, funeral costs, burial or cremation costs, as well as any past medical treatments.
Why Did My Workers’ Compensation Coverage Get Denied or End Early?
It is not uncommon for workers’ compensation claims to be rejected or for coverage to end early. Insurance companies are businesses, and at the end of the day, their primary concern is to protect their bottom line. If that means cutting your coverage or potentially rejecting your claim, they’ll do it.
Of course, it is reasonable to give the benefit of the doubt when you get a rejection, but most insurance companies are not going to be on your side. Rejections occur because:
- You did not provide sufficient evidence for your claim.
- The insurance company did not think that your injuries were work-related.
- The medical documentation you submitted is not consistent with the injuries you sustained.
On the other hand, coverage can be cut short if the insurance company feels you have recovered sufficiently and are ready to return to work. Or they may feel that you are not following proper medical procedure during recovery and use that as a reason to end your coverage early.
Our Allentown Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Can Help
If your workers’ compensation coverage is denied or cut short, we can help. Our Allentown workers’ compensation lawyers are ready to help you fight for your settlement in several ways:
- We will ensure your initial application process for benefits is filed accurately.
- We can help you gather all the evidence and documents to support your claim.
- We will represent you and your best interests at all times, especially during the appeal process.
- If necessary, we will take your claim to trial and represent you in court.
It can be tough to fight an insurance company or employer on your own. While you focus on your recovery, our lawyers will take care of your legal affairs for you.
Contact an Allentown Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Help
The team at Pond Lehocky has decades of experience helping injured workers in Allentown and throughout Pennsylvania stand up to insurance companies and fight for their settlements. We have helped recover millions for our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation at no risk to you.
