Pittsburgh Workers' Compensation Lawyers

Helping Injured Workers in Pennsylvania

If you have been injured on the job, you have a right to workers' compensation benefits. Knowing the best path to receiving your full benefits, however, can be a complicated process with unclear rules and regulations. Even for workers who want to exercise their full benefits, if you don't know what specific rights you have, how will you protect them?

At the law office of Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., our Pittsburgh workers' compensation lawyers have decades of proven and effective experience helping injured workers get access to the workers' compensation they need and deserve. We have the resources, knowledge and proven record to be effective at recovering the money you need to pay for damages and costs associated with your injury.

Call Robert Peirce & Associates at (844) 383-0565 to discuss your workers' comp case. If you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you!

What is a Work-Related Injury?

A work injury, also known as a workplace injury or occupational injury, refers to any harm, illness, or impairment that occurs as a result of performing work-related tasks or being present in a work environment. These injuries can range from minor to severe and can happen in various workplaces, from offices to construction sites, due to a multitude of reasons.
 

Common types of workplace injuries include:

• Musculoskeletal injuries: These affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and the skeletal system. They often result from overexertion, repetitive motions, lifting heavy objects, or poor ergonomics.
• Slips, trips, and falls: These accidents can happen due to wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, loose cables, clutter, or inadequate lighting.
• Cuts and lacerations: Injuries caused by sharp objects or tools in the workplace, like knives, machinery, or broken glass.
• Burns: Can occur due to exposure to heat, chemicals, electricity, or fires in the workplace.
• Strains and sprains: Resulting from sudden movements, lifting heavy objects, or improper lifting techniques.
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSI): Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or bursitis caused by repeated movements over time.
• Respiratory problems: Conditions arising from exposure to hazardous substances or poor air quality, leading to respiratory issues like asthma or lung diseases.
• Eye injuries: Caused by exposure to bright lights, chemicals, foreign objects, or particles in the workplace that can damage the eyes.
• Noise-induced hearing loss: Prolonged exposure to loud noises or machinery without adequate hearing protection can result in hearing impairments or permanent hearing loss.
• Mental health issues: Stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems can arise due to workplace factors like high pressure, harassment, or trauma.

You Have a Right to Full Compensation

Laws are in effect to protect workers who are injured on the job. Our attorneys can help you understand the complicated laws and regulations that govern your workers' comp claim.

We work with injured workers and their families to pursue:

• Indemnity benefits
• Medical benefits
• Specific loss benefits
• Death benefits
• Private insurance options
• Social security disability
• Unemployment benefits

Many clients are eligible to pursue more than one benefit depending on the severity, length, and cause of their injury. Work with lawyers who have decades of proven experience in helping people get access to their benefits and protect their rights.

How Long Do I Have to Report My Workers’ Comp Claim?

In Pennsylvania, the timeframe for reporting a workers' compensation claim is crucial. Generally, you are required to report a work-related injury to your employer as soon as possible. However, there is a specific deadline for filing a claim with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers' Compensation.

According to Pennsylvania law, you must notify your employer of your workplace injury within 120 days from the date of the incident or the date you became aware of the injury or illness. Failing to report the injury within this timeframe may jeopardize your ability to receive workers' compensation benefits.

While you have 120 days to report the injury, it is always advisable to inform your employer as soon as the injury occurs or as soon as you become aware of it. Prompt reporting helps ensure that the necessary documentation and investigation can take place in a timely manner.

Additionally, the Pennsylvania statute of limitations for filing a workers' compensation claim requires you to file your claim within three years from the date of the injury or the date you discovered the injury or illness, whichever comes later. Failing to file a claim within this timeframe may result in a loss of your right to pursue workers' compensation benefits.

Workers’ Compensation Act - What Is It and What Does It Do?

The Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Act is a state law that establishes a system for providing benefits to workers who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It aims to protect both employees and employers by providing a framework for compensating injured workers and preventing lengthy legal battles over fault and negligence.

Here are some key aspects of the Workers' Compensation Act and what it does:

• Coverage: The Act generally requires most employers in Pennsylvania to carry workers' compensation insurance or be self-insured. It applies to both full-time and part-time employees.
• Benefits: The Act provides various benefits to injured workers. These benefits include medical treatment, wage loss compensation, specific loss benefits for permanent disfigurement or loss of certain body parts, and vocational rehabilitation services to help injured workers return to suitable employment.
• No-Fault System: The workers' compensation system in Pennsylvania operates on a no-fault basis, meaning that injured workers are generally entitled to benefits regardless of who caused the accident or injury. In exchange for receiving these benefits, workers typically give up the right to sue their employers for the injuries covered by workers' compensation.
• Employer Responsibilities: The Act imposes certain obligations on employers. They must provide prompt medical treatment for injured employees, report work-related injuries to their insurance carrier, and cooperate with the workers' compensation claims process.
• Reporting and Filing Claims: As mentioned earlier, employees are required to report work-related injuries to their employers within 120 days of the incident or the date they became aware of the injury or illness. They must also file a claim with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers' Compensation within three years of the injury or the discovery of the injury.
• Dispute Resolution: The Act provides mechanisms for resolving disputes related to workers' compensation claims. This includes the use of mediation, hearings before workers' compensation judges, and the option to appeal decisions to the Workers' Compensation Appeal Board and higher courts.

The Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Act is designed to provide financial support and medical care to workers who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, helping them recover and return to employment while protecting employers from extensive litigation.

For specific details and guidance regarding workers' compensation claims and benefits, contact our Pittsburgh workers' compensation lawyers today!

My Workers’ Compensation Claim has been Denied. Now What?

Unfortunately, it is possible that your initial claim can be denied. Here are several reasons why you claim isn't approved:

• Failure to Report in Time: Failing to report the injury within the required timeframe is a common reason for denial. Reporting procedures and deadlines vary by state and company policy.
• Lack of Witnesses or Evidence: Without witnesses or evidence supporting the claim, it can be challenging to prove that the injury or illness occurred at the workplace.
• Pre-existing Condition: If the injury is related to a pre-existing condition or there's doubt about whether the injury occurred at work, the claim might be denied.
• Discrepancies in the Claim: Any inconsistencies or discrepancies in the information provided by the employee, medical records, or incident reports can lead to denial.
• Failure to Seek Medical Treatment: If an employee doesn't seek timely medical treatment or follow the prescribed course of treatment, it may raise doubts about the severity of the injury and lead to denial.
• Violation of Company Policy: If the injury occurred while violating company policy (e.g., being under the influence of drugs or alcohol), the claim might be denied.
• Independent Medical Examination (IME) Results: If the IME conducted by the insurance company's chosen doctor contradicts the severity or nature of the injury claimed, the claim could be denied.
• Missed Filing Deadlines: Missing deadlines for submitting paperwork or forms required for the claim can result in denial.
• Rejected Based on State Laws: Some states have specific laws regarding what injuries or situations are covered by workers' compensation. If the injury doesn’t fall within these guidelines, the claim may be denied.
• Employer Disputes the Claim: Employers can dispute the validity of a claim, providing their version of events or presenting evidence that contradicts the claim.

If your workers' compensation claim has been denied in Pennsylvania, there are several steps you can take to seek a resolution.

Review the denial letter: Carefully review the denial letter provided by the workers' compensation insurance carrier. The letter should outline the reasons for the denial, such as insufficient evidence, missed deadlines, or disputed causation.

Consult an attorney: Consider consulting with our attorneys who specializes in workers' compensation law. Our Pittsburgh workers' compensation lawyers can review your case, provide legal advice, and guide you through the appeals process. We will help determine the best course of action based on the specifics of your claim.

File an appeal: In Pennsylvania, you have the right to appeal the denial of your workers' compensation claim. The first step is to file a petition with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers' Compensation. The specific form and deadline for filing the appeal can vary, so it's crucial to consult an attorney or contact the Bureau for accurate information.

Gather supporting evidence: To strengthen your appeal, gather any additional evidence that supports your claim. This may include medical records, witness statements, photographs, or expert opinions. Your attorney can assist you in compiling and presenting this evidence effectively.

Attend hearings and mediation: The appeals process may involve hearings before a workers' compensation judge. These hearings provide an opportunity to present your case and argue for the benefits you believe you are entitled to. In some cases, mediation may be attempted to reach a settlement.

Follow the appeals process: Follow the appeals process diligently and provide any requested documentation or information within the specified deadlines. Your attorney will guide you through this process and represent your interests.

Consider alternative dispute resolution: If your appeal is unsuccessful, you and your attorney may explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as settlement negotiations or mediation, to reach a resolution outside of court.

It's essential to consult with a workers' comp attorney early in the process to ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of a successful outcome. We will provide personalized guidance based on the specifics of your case and the relevant workers' compensation laws in Pennsylvania.

Experienced Pittsburgh Workers' Compensation Attorneys

Hiring our Pittsburgh workers' compensation lawyer at Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. can provide numerous benefits when dealing with a workers' compensation claim. Here's how we can assist:

• Expert Guidance: We offer expert guidance throughout the entire process. Our lawyers are well-versed in workers' compensation laws and can explain your rights and options clearly.
• Maximizing Benefits: Our goal is to ensure you receive the maximum benefits you're entitled to. We analyze your case thoroughly to identify all possible benefits, including medical expenses, lost wages, vocational rehabilitation, and more.
• Navigating Complexities: Workers' compensation claims can be complex. We navigate the complexities of the legal system, handle paperwork, and ensure all deadlines are met, reducing the stress on you.
• Evidence Collection: We gather evidence to strengthen your case, including medical records, witness statements, and expert testimonies, to support your claim's validity.
• Negotiation and Settlement: Our team is skilled in negotiating with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. We advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Representation in Hearings or Appeals: In the event of disputes, hearings, or appeals, we represent you effectively, presenting a compelling case to the administrative bodies or courts.
• Peace of Mind: Having us handle your case allows you to focus on recovery without the added stress of navigating the legal complexities of a workers' compensation claim.

To schedule a free initial consultation with our Pittsburgh office to review your case and discuss your compensation benefits, call toll-free (844) 383-0565 or contact us online.