Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Reading, PA

If you were injured at work or you contracted a work-related illness, contact the worker’s comp lawyers in Reading at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. We can help you navigate the complex Pennsylvania workers’ compensation system, so you can get maximum compensation for your injuries. Our experienced attorneys serve clients in Berks County, Bensalem County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County. To discuss your case, call us at (888) PITT-LAW or complete our online contact form.

Our Reading workers’ compensation lawyers provide skilled representation to those residing in and around Reading, Shillington, West Reading, Mt. Penn, Wyomissing, and the surrounding areas.

Most workers in Pennsylvania who sustain a workplace injury are entitled to workers’ compensation under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act. The Act establishes a no-fault insurance system designed to compensate workers in the event that they suffer a workplace injury or contract an occupational illness. Qualified employees are entitled to compensation for medical expenses and lost wages for their workplace injury or illness.

For over 35 years, the workers’ compensation lawyers at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. have been protecting the rights of workers in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Pennsylvania

There are several occupations that are not eligible for compensation under the Act, including railroad workers, longshoremen, and federal employees. However, nearly all Pennsylvania employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance, either through an insurer or a self-insured workers’ compensation program. If you sustain a workplace injury or discover that you have a work-related illness, you are generally required to report your injuries to your employer within 120 days of your accident.

There are certain exceptions to the 120-day reporting requirement, such as if you suffer from hearing loss, repetitive motion injuries, or progressive disease. However, it is generally advisable to report your injuries to your employer as soon as possible, so you can begin receiving benefits. Details, such as where the work accident happened, who was involved, and what type of injuries were sustained should be included in your written report.

The Claims Process

Once your employer receives the injury report, they are required to file a First Report of Injury with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers’ Compensation within a certain amount of time, depending on the severity of your accident. If you missed more than a day, shift, or turn of work due to your injury, your employer must file within seven days. For injuries resulting in death, employers must file within three days.

You may be entitled to temporary benefits if your employer extends the investigation of your claim to 90 days. If your employer decides to accept your claim, you will begin receiving compensation for your medical expenses and wage losses in accordance with your average weekly pre-injury wages. If your employer chooses to deny your claim, you will receive a Notice of Workers’ Compensation Denial.

The legal team at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. can help you to file your initial claim, meet all requirements and deadlines, and appeal your claim in the event it is denied by your employer.

The Appeals Process

Employers may choose to deny your claim for a variety of reasons, including if they question the legitimacy of your claim if they find that there is inadequate or missing information, and if your injury was not reported on time.

You may appeal your denial to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation within three years from the date of your injury. If the workers’ compensation judge denies your appeal, you may file appeals with the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board, the Commonwealth Court, and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, respectively. Appeals filed by a skilled work injury lawyer have an increased chance of a successful result.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Under the Act, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in the form of payment for your medical bills, temporary disability, permanent disability, vocational rehabilitation, and lost wages according to your pre-injury average weekly wage. Family members of workers who were fatally injured in a workplace accident may also be entitled to workers’ compensation death benefits.

In exchange for workers’ compensation benefits, workers agree to not sue their employers for any work-related accidents or injuries. However, there are certain exceptions. For example, if someone other than your employer was at fault for your injuries, you may be able to file a third-party claim, under which you may be eligible to recover additional personal injury damages for your injuries, including pain and suffering.

Reading Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. Help Injured Workers in Pennsylvania Get Compensation for their Injuries

Waiting can hurt your case. Call our attorneys today at (888) PITT-LAW or use our online contact form here to request your free consultation. We fight for your side and work to get you the compensation you deserve.