When you suffer an injury at work, you may be confused as to what to do next and how to pursue the benefits you need to recover. Whether you work as a nurse or healthcare professional, teacher, factory worker, officer worker or more, your injuries may be severe and you may face uncertainty over when you can return to your job.
Pennsylvania employers provide most employees across the state with access to workers’ compensation benefits in the event of an on-the-job injury or illness. Through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance, you could gain access to a portion of your regular wages, benefits and potentially other resources while you recover.
Common workplace injuries
Many consider workplace injuries to be sudden, traumatic injuries. While such causes account for many injuries at work each year, the 2019 Liberty Mutual index reports that repetitive motion injuries make the list of top ten most costly causes of workplace injuries. Other common injuries include overexertion, falls, motor vehicle accidents, slips or trips, being struck by or against an object and more.
Steps to take after suffering an injury
Suffering an injury can leave you unsure of how to get access to the care and compensation you need to focus on your health. After an injury, steps to take include:
- Notifying your employer immediately. Within 120 days of your injury or as soon as you can, notify your supervisor or employer of the extent of your injuries.
- Filing a worker’s comp claim. Simply notifying your employer will not give you access to benefits. File a claim to start the process as soon as possible.
- Seeking medical care. Your employer may require you to visit their doctor. Comply with any requirements and follow their instructions to recover.
- Returning to work when you are able. While you may feel anxious to get back to work, follow doctor’s orders and refrain from returning sooner than you should.
Pennsylvania law requires most employers to offer workers’ compensation coverage to their employees. However, you may encounter a situation in which your employer contests whether your injuries were work-related, you receive inadequate medical treatment or the insurer denies your claim. In such cases, seek legal help to fight for the benefits you need to recover.
