Workers' Compensation Lawyer in Crabtree, PA

A workplace injury can leave you feeling lost, anxious, and uncertain about your future. While you may be aware that Pennsylvania employees are eligible to claim workers’ compensation benefits, the prospect of filing a claim can be overwhelming at such a challenging time. Perhaps you have heard horror stories about frustrating bureaucratic processes, unreasonable waiting times, or unfair denials. With so many potential obstacles, you need a dedicated injury attorney who serves Crabtree employees and residents.

Attorney Cindy Stine and the legal team at Stine & Associates have a long track record of fighting for injured workers in Crabtree and securing the benefits they deserve. With over 30 years of legal experience, our firm has the knowledge and resources to handle every aspect of your case. From completing the initial paperwork to handling any disputes or appeals, let us take the reins so you can focus on getting better.

Why You Need a Workers’ Comp Attorney

While the Pennsylvania workers’ compensation system covers most employees across the state, accessing the benefits you deserve can be challenging. While many injured workers assume they can handle their own cases, they are often surprised to discover the procedural, legal, and bureaucratic hurdles that can lead to frustration and disappointment. For example, an insurer might try to minimize or deny your benefits, or your employer may attempt to challenge your claim.

When you work with a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney who thoroughly understands Pennsylvania’s workers’ comp system, you have an advocate on your side who can protect you from unfair tactics or other potential pitfalls. They will know how to maximize the benefits you’re entitled to so that you can cover your medical expenses, a significant majority of your lost wages, and more.

Common Examples of Pennsylvania Workplace Injuries

In a recent year, more than 123,000 employees sustained workplace injuries. Some of the most common on-the-job injuries in the Commonwealth include:

• Slip-and-fall injuries – These accidents occur when an employee slips on a wet floor, trips over clutter, or falls from a height. Fall accidents often lead to fractures, soft tissue injuries, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
• Repetitive strain injuries – An RSI, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis, may result from performing tasks that involve repeated motions. Such activities include operating vibrating machinery, such as jackhammers, repetitive lifting, or assembly-line work.
• Burns – Employees who work in jobs that involve exposure to electricity, chemicals, or heat are at risk of suffering burn injuries. Burns can result in infections, severe scarring, and extensive medical treatment.
• Back injuries – Back strain can often occur due to lifting heavy objects, working in awkward positions, and frequent bending over. Herniated discs or muscle strain can significantly reduce mobility and cause chronic pain.
• Crush injuries – Workers who operate heavy machinery or equipment can suffer crush injuries when their bodies become trapped or compressed. The consequences can be life-threatening. Survivors may suffer broken bones, organ damage, and even paralysis.
• Hearing loss – If a worker’s job exposes them to loud noises for prolonged periods, they may eventually experience hearing loss. This issue is common in the construction and manufacturing industries.
• Respiratory illnesses – Jobs that expose workers to harmful chemicals, dust, or asbestos can lead to respiratory issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.
• On-the-job vehicle accidents – Driving a car, truck, or other vehicle constitutes a significant aspect of many Pennsylvanians’ job duties. When a driver is involved in an on-the-clock accident, they are at risk of suffering catastrophic injuries.

Workers’ Comp Benefits in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania workers’ compensation system makes certain benefits available to most injured employees in the Commonwealth. Depending on the nature of your injuries and other factors, these benefits may include:

• Medical benefits – Workers’ compensation insurance typically covers the cost of all medically necessary treatments, provided they are reasonable and necessary. Examples of covered expenses include doctor’s appointments, surgical procedures, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wage benefits – Injured workers are entitled to receive partial compensation for income they lose due to an inability to perform their job. This usually amounts to roughly two-thirds of their average weekly wages.
• Specific loss benefits – Workers can receive compensation for a permanent impairment of a body part.
• Total disability benefits – You may be eligible for ongoing wage replacement if your injury completely prevents you from doing your job for an extended period.
• Partial disability benefits – Employees may receive wage replacement if they can return to work but earn less due to their injury.
• Death benefits – Family members can receive financial support if a worker has lost their life due to a job-related injury or illness.

Steps in the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Process

Here are the actions you should take when filing a workers’ compensation claim in Pennsylvania:

• Report the injury – You should notify your employer as soon as you sustain an on-the-job injury, noting the date and location of the incident. Reporting the injury within 21 days can help you avoid unnecessary delays, but be sure to do so within 120 days to qualify for benefits.
• Seek medical treatment – Visit a qualified medical professional as soon as possible. Your employer may maintain a list of approved healthcare providers, but you have a right to seek a second opinion if your injury requires a surgical procedure.
• File a claim – In most cases, it is your employer’s duty to report your injury to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. If they fail to do so, you can file yourself. The insurer must accept or deny your claim within 21 days.
• Receive your benefits – If your claim is accepted, you will begin to receive wage-loss benefits after you have missed seven days of work. You are eligible for compensation for medical expenses from day one.
• Return to work – If you are medically cleared to resume work, your employer may offer you a job that accommodates your medical restrictions. You should accept this offer to continue receiving maximum benefits.
• File an appeal if necessary – If your claim is rejected, you can request a hearing before a workers’ compensation judge. You must do so within three years of the injury date.

Contact Stine & Associates Today

The experienced team at Stine & Associates, P.C., is ready to guide you through the workers’ comp process and fight for your rights. We serve clients throughout Western and Central Pennsylvania. Call us at 724-837-0160 or contact us online for a free consultation.