Although there is no Pennsylvania law that requires an injured worker to hire an attorney to represent them in a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claim, the insurance company will in all likelihood have an attorney representing them. In turn, a worker who does not have legal representation may not receive the total amount of compensation that they are entitled to.
In cases where a claim involves either a denial by an insurer or serious injury, it is highly advised to seek experienced legal representation. Just because an insurer denies a claim doesn’t automatically make it invalid. The insurance company is simply acting in its own best interest, and it is their interest to pay out as little compensation as possible.
The rules of evidence apply for workers’ compensation claim cases, and most require evidence presentation as well as the live deposition testimony of doctors. Although workers are legally entitled to represent themselves, the associated legal proceedings and processes involve intricate complexities that the worker will most likely not understand. In this phase of a case, it is highly advised that a worker seek legal representation from an experienced Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer.
If you are unsure about the rights that you have in regards to your workers’ compensation, or if an insurer has denied your claim, call Calhoon & Associates at 717-695-4722 or 877-291-9675 for a free initial consultation.
If you have suffered a work-related injury or have become ill because of exposure to hazardous material on the job, you may be potentially entitled to medical and compensation benefits under the Workers’ Compensation Act. The vast majority of Pennsylvania workers are covered by the Act. Those who are not covered (such as Federal or Rail Road workers), are most likely entitled to benefits under another type of plan.
It’s important to be informed of the reporting requirements. In order to be eligible for Pennsylvania workers’ compensation benefits, an employee needs notify their employer know of their illness and/or injury within a specific amount of time. A worker who has suffered an injury on the job has 120 days from the date of sustaining the injury to inform their employer. A failure to provide your employer with notice of injury can result in a loss of benefits.
Workers commonly encounter many difficulties when trying to receive benefits for their injury, even when it is obvious that the injury is legitimate. Because employers most typically use private insurance companies, work-related injury claims are often times denied.
If you have been injured in the workplace and your claim has been denied by your employer or their insurance company, it is essential that you speak with a Pennsylvania workers compensation lawyer about the specifics of your case.
To schedule an initial consultation with an experienced attorney, call Calhoon & Associates at 717-695-4722 or 877-291-9675.
