A work injury may leave you unsure where your next paycheck is coming from. However, filing a workers’ compensation claim should prevent you from going too long without income after a work injury. Learn when you may expect to receive your first workers’ compensation check.
The Workers’ Compensation Timeline
In Pennsylvania, injured workers must report their injury to their employer within 21 days. Failing to notify an employer by 120 days will make the worker ineligible for workers’ compensation.
Once the employer has been notified, they must inform their insurer within 48 hours for injuries resulting in death and within seven days for all other injuries.
Most states require workers’ compensation insurance companies to approve or deny a claim promptly or within a reasonable amount of time. Sometimes, if an insurer does not make a decision on a claim within a set period of time, the claim will be automatically approved. Benefit checks will be sent to the injured worker soon after a decision is made.
In general, you can expect your claim to be approved or denied within a few weeks from your injury. If you do not hear from the insurance company or your claim is denied, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can look into the matter and determine whether your claim was denied unjustly. Your attorney can also help you file an appeal and maximize the likelihood of winning benefits.
If you or someone you love has been injured at work and you need assistance filing a workers’ compensation claim, our Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys are here to help. We’re well-versed in negotiating with insurance companies, and we can help you recover the funds you deserve.
Call Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. at (844) 383-0565 to schedule a free consultation.