Wayne, Pennsylvania is an unincorporated community in Pennsylvania that stretches into Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. While Wayne is centered in Radnor Township, it also reached into Tredyffrin Township and Upper Merion Township. As one can surmise, Wayne is a bustling and economically diverse are with the center of its business district at the intersection of Lancaster Avenue and Wayne Avenue. The economy of Wayne and surrounding areas provide for numerous opportunities for dedicated hard working residents. Kenexa, an IBM company, is a major employer in Wayne that places workers in an array of industries. Sungaurd is another international company based in Wayne where many local people work.
While there is significant economic opportunity in Wayne, a workplace injury or occupation illness can strike at any time. Following an injury that forces you to stop working, you may worry about your medical expenses and simply keeping your household afloat. The Workers’ Compensation lawyers of Lerner, Steinberg & Associates can assess your workplace injury and determine your likelihood of securing Workers’ Compensation benefits in Pennsylvania. Attorney and founding partner Mark is certified as a specialist in the practice of Workers’ Compensation law by the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Section on Workers’ Compensation Law as authorized by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
For What Types of Injuries Can You Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Many potential clients are interested in determining whether their particular injury, disability, or impairing condition will permit them to secure Workers’ Compensation benefits. They may ask if their slip and fall, injury caused by machinery, or repetitive stress injury can qualify them for benefits. The law in Pennsylvania does not define specific mechanisms of injury for purposes of Workers’ Compensation eligibility. Rather, Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation system is premised on the worker suffering a “workplace injury.”
Under Section 301(c)(1) of the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, 77 P.S. §411(1), a “workplace injury” is any injury, disease, or medical condition that is caused by or casually connected to the individual’s job or workplace duties. Qualifying injuries can even include pre-existing conditions that are aggravated by your work. Speaking generally, it is typically an easier path to prove an injury caused by a marked event in time compared to a repetitive stress or degenerative injury that develops over weeks, months, or years. A strategic Workers’ Compensation attorney who understands the legal framework, burdens of proof, and the type of evidence courts look for can assist with proving your medical condition and the link to your employment.
Am I Required to Tell my Boss or Manager About My Injuries?
Yes, under Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation law you are required to report a workplace injury to a boss or other supervisor. You should report your injury within 21 days of the injury event or onset of the disability. For injuries with a less definitive start date, it may be difficult to meet this 21 day window, but they must be reported within 120 days. A good general rule to follow is if you have been injured, report it immediately or as soon as is practicable.
When Will I Start Getting Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Every matter is different and the timing of your benefits will be impacted by actions your employer or Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation board may take. However, Pennsylvania law does provide the employer and its insurer with a 21 day grace period where they can accept or cotest the fact that the injury is work related. After making this decision, the employer or insurer will issue either a Notice of Compensation Payable or Notice of Temporary Compensation Payable or a Notice of Compensation Denial. Clearly, benefits will be received much more expeditiously if the employer does not contest your claim. In any case, if the injured worker seeks benefits for lost wages, he or she must submit sufficient proof of the injury and its limiting effects.
If benefits are awarded, you may come to face an utilization review (UR). When an employer files a UR, the goal is to challenge the benefits you are receiving. If you receive a notice of this type, it is wise to contact a lawyer immediately so that you have the best chance at maintaining your benefits.
Work with Strategic Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Serving Wayne, PA
If you were hurt at work and can no longer perform your job duties, the lawyers of Lerner, Steinberg & Associates may be able to help. Whether your injuries are temporary or life-long, you may qualify for benefits. To schedule a free and confidential consultation at our law offices, call 1-(215) 355-6400 or contact us online.
