No matter where you work or what field you are in, getting hurt on the job can turn your life upside down. In Pennsylvania, most workers are covered by workers’ compensation from their first day on the job, but understanding the process and fully exercising your rights can be difficult.
Contact The Law Office of Kaitlin Files, LLC to learn about workers’ compensation claim eligibility in Bensalem. Our dedicated workers’ compensation attorneys could help you get the compensation you need to recover both physically and financially.
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system designed to protect workers from work-related injuries. Unlike a personal injury lawsuit, a workers’ compensation claim does not require proof that an employer was negligent or that the workplace failed to meet safety regulations. Instead, you must provide proof that your injury was sustained during activities related to work to be eligible for workers’ compensation in Bensalem.
Pennsylvania law ensures that workers’ compensation applies broadly, with an inclusive definition of “employee” and no minimum number of workers. With a few exceptions for sole proprietors, those employing private domestic labor, and those who employ very temporary seasonal agricultural workers, almost every employer in the state is required to provide workers’ compensation coverage.
Those working in retail, factories, and warehouses commonly seek compensation for slip and fall accidents and injuries from tools or machines. Individuals who work in transportation may experience back injuries due to repetitive lifting or spending long hours exposed to vibration while behind the wheel. Bensalem vehicle accidents that occur while driving for work can also be eligible for workers’ compensation. Those who work in industrial and medical environments may be exposed to chemicals or diseases that make them eligible for compensation.
Any Bensalem employee who gets injured or becomes ill due to workplace conditions is likely to qualify for workers’ compensation, provided they file a claim within the required time limits. Generally, you must notify your employer within 120 days of the incident and file a claim within three years. Missing these deadlines may lead to ineligibility for compensation.
While the state’s workers’ compensation coverage is broad, there are some exceptions. Freelance workers and independent contractors in Bensalem are typically exempt from workers’ compensation coverage, though there could be misclassification of status. Volunteer workers are also typically ineligible. Those who are injured because they are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs may also be unable to seek compensation.
Workers’ compensation also has limits on when it applies. For example, an employee who is injured while commuting to the workplace but before officially starting their job duties cannot usually seek workers’ compensation.
While injuries are common in many industries, they often go unreported. This may be because workers do not fully understand their rights or are afraid of employer retaliation. Lack of knowledge or fear can make eligible Bensalem workers miss deadlines and lose out on the workers’ compensation they deserve and need.
Acting quickly to report your workplace injuries to employers and filing claims with well-documented evidence could protect your rights and give you the best chance of receiving fair and complete compensation. Our workers’ compensation lawyer could help ensure that all deadlines are met and ensure your claim is supported by strong evidence that supports your right to recovery.
Workplace injuries can be overwhelming and costly. If you need help understanding or navigating workers’ compensation claim eligibility in Bensalem, reach out to our office today. The attorneys at The Law Office of Kaitlin Files, LLC are here to help you navigate your next steps in the claim process.
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