Bethlehem Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
You expect to work in a safe environment, but sometimes accidents happen. You might injure yourself while driving machinery or slipping and falling.
So what happens if you are injured? What recourse can you take? If you have been injured on the job, your employer should have workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance is required by Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system and is in place to protect employees and employers.
How does it work? Employees receive medical treatment and are compensated for lost wages associated with injuries and illnesses that occur in the workplace. Employers pay for the coverage. In exchange, they are protected from lawsuits by employees.
Most workers’ compensation claims are approved without issue. If your claim was denied, you need someone who will fight on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact The O’Donnell Law Offices today. Our Bethlehem workers’ compensation lawyer can represent you.
Common Workplace Accidents
Workers’ compensation insurance covers the following accidents:
- Slips and falls. These accidents typically happen outdoors in the winter months, but can also happen in places where spilled liquids are common, such as grocery stores and restaurants.
- Getting hit by an object. These accidents tend to happen often in the construction industry. Workers may get hit by tractors and other machinery, as well as materials, tools, and tree limbs. These accidents can cause a variety of injuries.
- Repetitive motion injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and rotator cuff syndrome are common repetitive motion injuries. They are often caused by computer work and constant lifting and can cause injuries to the muscles, nerves, tendons, and joints.
What is and What is Not Covered?
Workers’ compensation benefits are available to cover medical expenses and lost wages for employees who are injured in the workplace. If the employee is killed, workers’ compensation insurance also provides benefits such as funeral expenses.
However, not all workplace accidents are covered by insurance. For example, injuries caused by a fight, injuries caused by intoxication, and intentional injuries are not covered.
When an Employee is Injured
Workplace accidents should be reported to a supervisor immediately. The report should include information such as the date and time the injury occurred and how it happened. Job-related illnesses that worsen over time should be reported as soon as there is a diagnosis or as soon as they learn the condition is related to their job.
Employers should make sure their injured employees get proper medical treatment. They should call 911 or take them to the emergency room. They should also make every effort to approve time off necessary for recovery.
Contact O’Donnell Law Offices Today
Workplace accidents can lead to broken bones, head trauma, neck and back injuries, paralysis, amputation, and other life-threatening injuries. Because these injuries can make it hard to work, getting workers’ compensation is essential.
Make sure your claim gets approved. A Bethlehem workers’ compensation lawyer at O’Donnell Law Offices can help you get the benefits you deserve. Fill out the online form or call (570) 821-5717 to schedule a free consultation.
