If you are injured on the job, you are most likely entitled to workers' compensation benefits, which typically include a percentage of your average weekly wage as well as medical coverage. Additional awards may be available for workers who suffer permanent disabling or disfiguring injuries.
The majority of workers' compensation claims are denied initially. If your claim is denied, you may work with an attorney to appeal the denial. Kenneth R. Schuster & Associates, P.C., represents injured workers in Pennsylvania. Your employer's insurance carrier will have experienced lawyers working to protect the company from risk and expense. You should have an attorney to protect your rights and maximize the workers' comp benefits you are entitled to receive. For a free consultation, please call us in Philadelphia at 610-892-9200 or contact us online.
First Steps When Filing a Claim
- Immediately report your injury to your employer and supervisor. State law requires notification within strict timelines. If an injury occurs over time (such as a disease or illness), you must report your condition as soon as it is diagnosed and you are told it is causally related to your work. Then complete the employer's claim form describing your injury and how it occurred. Save copies of all correspondence with your employer, its insurance carrier and your doctor concerning your claim.
- Keep an independent record of the date, time and nature of your work injury. Make a list of witnesses as well as the person to whom the injury is reported.
- Provide a complete and accurate account of the injury and how it occurred, as well as your past medical history.
- If your employer fails to accept your claim within 21 days of notification, seek legal counsel so we may file a petition for compensation.
- Should your employer accept your injury claim, be certain that the wages upon which your compensation is based are accurate.
- If your employer or the insurance company asks you to see another physician, seek legal advice immediately. This can be your employer's first step in an attempt to terminate your compensation or modify your benefits.
- Should you receive a petition in the mail to terminate, suspend or modify your compensation, do not sign it. Seek legal advice first.
- Never sign a supplement or final agreement without having it reviewed by an attorney.
Contact Us Today
If your claim was denied, we can review your application and determine the reason for the denial. To schedule a free consultation, please call 610-892-9200.
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