University City Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

Workplace injuries can range from minor accidents to severe illnesses caused by hazardous job conditions. Navigating the Workers’ Compensation process can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from an injury. Understanding your rights is essential to ensure you receive the benefits and support you deserve.

For over 75 years, the dedicated University City Workers’ Compensation lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP have advocated for injured workers, fighting for the benefits they are entitled to after a workplace accident.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ Compensation is a form of insurance employers in Pennsylvania must provide for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It covers:

Medical expenses (doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation).
Lost wages if the worker is unable to work.
Disability benefits for partial or total disabilities.
Specific loss benefits for permanent injuries, such as amputations or loss of vision/hearing.
Death benefits for the families of fatally injured workers.

Workers’ Compensation benefits allow injured employees to focus on recovery without financial hardship.

Employees’ Rights Under Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation Law

Under Pennsylvania law, employees are protected by the Injured Workers’ Bill of Rights, which includes:

The right to seek medical treatment for a work-related injury.
The right to file a Workers’ Compensation claim without retaliation.
The right to receive wage loss benefits if unable to work.
The right to appeal a denied claim.
The right to legal representation throughout the claims process.

These rights ensure fair treatment and access to necessary benefits after a workplace injury.

Can I See My Own Doctor for Work Injuries?

Under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, you must see an employer-approved doctor for the first 90 days—but only if your employer-provided a valid list of at least six designated providers before your injury.

Exceptions include but are not limited to:

Emergency Care: You can visit any doctor for emergency treatment.
Referrals: A designated provider may refer you to another specialist.
Surgical Second Opinions: You may seek an independent opinion if surgery is recommended.
Failure to Provide a List: If your employer did not give you a valid list of providers, you can see any doctor you choose immediately.

How Long Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

The length of Workers’ Compensation benefits depends on your injury:

Medical Benefits: Continue as long as treatment is necessary.
Total Disability Benefits: Can continue indefinitely, but insurers may request evaluations after 104 weeks to determine an impairment rating which may result in your wage loss benefits becoming partial disability benefits rather than total disability benefits.
Wage Loss Benefits: May be paid for up to 500 weeks for partial disabilities.
Specific Loss Benefits: Paid according to a set schedule for permanent injuries (e.g., amputations, vision loss).

If your benefits are prematurely reduced or terminated, legal assistance can help protect your rights.

How Do I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

To receive full benefits, you must do the following:

Report the injury to your employer within 21 days of the accident. If you report it after 21 days but within 120 days, you may still receive benefits but not retroactive wage loss payments.
Document everything, including medical visits and employer communications.
Ensure your employer files the correct forms:
- Notice of Compensation Payable (NCP) – If your claim is accepted.
- Notice of Compensation Denial (NCD) – If your claim is denied.
- Temporary Notice of Compensation Payable (TNCP) – If your employer is still investigating.
Request a copy of all filed documents to verify accuracy.

Can My Workers’ Compensation Claim Be Denied?

Yes, Workers’ Compensation claims are sometimes denied for reasons such as:

Failing to report your injury in time.
Insufficient evidence that your injury is work-related.
Discrepancies in medical records or statements.
Employer disputes over how the injury occurred.
Injuries sustained while under the influence or during intentional acts (e.g., fighting).

If your claim is denied, you can file a Claim Petition to have your case assigned to a workers’ compensation judge. If the Judge denies the claim you may file an appeal with the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board (WCAB). The appeals process can be complex, and having an experienced lawyer can make a significant difference.

What Should I Do if I Am Injured at Work?

If you suffer a workplace injury, taking the following steps can help protect your rights:

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
Take photographs of the accident scene and your injury.
Seek medical attention immediately and follow all treatment recommendations.
Maintain records of medical visits, expenses, and employer communications.
Request copies of all relevant documents from your employer.
Consult a University City Workers’ Compensation lawyer if you encounter difficulties with your claim.

How Can Galfand Berger LLP Help?

At Galfand Berger LLP, we understand the challenges of dealing with a workplace injury. Our experienced University City Workers’ Compensation lawyers can:

Ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.
Gather medical evidence to maximize your benefits.
Challenge unfair claim denials or benefit reductions.
Represent you in appeals before a worker’s compensation judge or the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board.

For over 75 years, we have been dedicated to protecting the rights of injured workers – and we can help you, too!