Every day, workers in Pottstown face hazardous conditions while on the job. In the unfortunate event that they sustain an injury, it is crucial for them to understand the coverage provided for their medical expenses and lost wages.
In most cases, employers are required to provide Workers’ Compensation insurance for their employees. Although the process might seem complicated, it is important to note that any injury suffered while on the job, no matter how minor, usually entitles a worker to compensation. Workers dedicate their time and skill to their employers and deserve proper protection in the event of a workplace injury.
Contact Lerner, Steinberg & Associates at (215) 355-6400 for a free case consultation with our Workers’ Compensation attorneys.
Workers’ Compensation Injuries that Typically Occur in Pottstown
Numerous injuries can afflict workers in Pottstown, which Workers’ Compensation should cover if they occurred while you were on the job. These injuries might be minor or could be life-altering. Fortunately, our Workers’ Compensation lawyers can help you recover the benefits you are entitled to, no matter how severe your injuries are. Below are some of the most frequently sustained injuries that workers suffer from in Pottstown:
Fractures
One of the most common injuries sustained at work in Pottstown is fractured bones. There are various ways you can sustain broken bones while at work. Broken bones usually occur in accidents involving delivery vehicles, slips and falls, and falling objects. Heavy machinery can also cause crushing incidents, leading to severe or even deadly fractures, especially if broken bones pierce an internal organ. The good news is that Workers’ Compensation will usually cover the costs of treating broken bones, including the physical therapy you will likely need to recover fully.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Workers in Pottstown frequently experience soft tissue injuries, which are painful and prevalent. These injuries can include muscle and ligament strains, sprains, and tears. Often, they occur when employees overexert themselves while performing job duties. For instance, a delivery person who lifts heavy boxes might tear the rotator cuff in their arm, leaving them unable to work until they recover from the injury, which could still leave long-lasting pain.
In cases where the problem is more severe, corrective surgery may be required. For example, repetitive motion injuries often necessitate surgery for proper healing. These types of injuries are comparable to soft tissue injuries but are more serious because they develop over time, like a sprain or torn ligament.
Neck and Back Injuries
Many workers in Pottstown file claims for injuries to their neck and back, which are some of the most frequently reported. Common examples include herniated disks and pinched nerves. Whether you are lifting heavy objects or working at a desk for extended periods, these injuries can be extremely disabling and potentially impact your health for the rest of your life.
Severe neck injuries like spinal cord damage could result in partial or total paralysis. These are arguably some of the most serious types of workplace injuries and could qualify you for partial or total disability benefits.
Amputations
Unfortunately, workplace settings have a higher likelihood of experiencing amputations. These incidents may be caused by hazards such as getting caught in heavy machinery or from a severely broken bone. Amputations are typically life-altering for those affected, and Workers’ Compensation is available to aid in their recovery process. The amount of compensation you will receive for an amputation injury is contingent on which body part was amputated and whether it was a total or partial amputation.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
While harder to prove, workers are no less entitled to compensation for injuries caused by repetitive motion and stress. Performing jobs that entail constant use of the hands, standing, or similar repetitive actions can lead to what is known as “repetitive stress injuries.” These injuries could be in the form of carpal tunnel syndrome or stress tears in joint muscles or ligaments and can result in serious harm to the elbows or shoulders. You might also suffer from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) due to repeated use of a particular body part. This neurological condition can cause chronic pain as a result of heightened nerve impulses to the affected area, which can impact your ability to work. Repetitive stress injuries often require surgery to alleviate the pain. Although proving these injuries can be challenging, medical expert testimony can help establish their existence.
Burns and Disfigurement
Injuries from burns can occur due to various accidents, including contact with chemicals, exposed electrical wires, or hot liquid or steam. Permanent disability, scarring, or disfigurement are common for workers who have suffered burns. The extent of the injuries typically depends on the degree of the burns and whether a thermal or electrical source caused them.
Employers need to ensure that their workers are given protective gear such as masks, gloves, and specialized clothing when there is a risk of exposure to hazardous materials or fire while on the job. If you were not given adequate protective equipment and subsequently suffered a burn injury, you have grounds to file a Workers’ Compensation claim to cover the costs of your injuries.
Recovering Workers’ Compensation Benefits After Being Injured in Pottstown
In order to successfully receive Workers’ Compensation benefits in Pottstown, it is crucial to adhere to the guidelines and procedures established by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. Failing to meet any requirements can lead to denying your claim or significant delays in receiving benefits. The first step is to inform your employer of the job-related injuries you have sustained. While it is best to report the incident as soon as possible, you have 21 days to do so.
However, you must file your Workers’ Compensation claim with supporting evidence. This includes submitting medical records and other documents like employer accident reports and surveillance video, which our team can help you gather and prepare. If your claim has been approved, benefits should be distributed to you after a seven-day waiting period. If you receive notice that your approval is temporary, however, your employer’s insurance provider will investigate your claim further to determine if it is valid. You will still receive benefits during this period, but the insurance company has 90 days to approve or deny your claim.
If your claim is denied, we are here to assist you in challenging the decision through the appeals process. The state of Pennsylvania thankfully offers various chances to appeal an unfavorable decision regarding Workers’ Compensation claims. A Workers’ Compensation judge will first hear your appeal. If the results are unfavorable, you can take the appeal to the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Board. If your claim has still not been approved, your case can move to the Pottstown Commonwealth Court up to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, if necessary.
Our Pottstown Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Can Help
For a free case evaluation with our Workers’ Compensation attorneys, call Lerner, Steinberg & Associates at (215) 355-6400 today.
