When you’ve been hurt in an accident at work, you deserve to be compensated. Your employer should notify you immediately of your eligibility under workers’ compensation. This compensation is not meant to cover your total expenses, but can help you recoup some of the damages, such as:

Medical Expenses

In general, workers’ compensation should cover most of your medical expenses, including doctor visits, surgery and prescription medications. However, if your employer has a list of recommended doctors, you must see one of those doctors in order for your medical bills to be covered. You are eligible for medical benefits through Pennsylvania workers’ compensation whether or not your injury requires you to take a leave of absence from work.

Lost Wages

If your injury leaves you unable to work, you will likely be eligible to receive compensation for a portion of the wages you were making before your on-the-job accident. In Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation typically covers two-thirds of your average weekly income. Factors that may affect that amount include any of the following circumstances:

• You are totally disabled – This may increase your lost wages benefits.
• You are able to take a lower paying job – You will then be able to get a portion—two-thirds—of the difference in income between the two jobs.
• You are also getting pension or Social Security benefits – This may lower your lost wages compensation.

Other Benefits

You may be eligible for additional compensation if you have suffered a specific loss—such as an amputation—or lost a loved one in a work-related accident. Workers’ compensation is a complex system that can be difficult to navigate. If you’ve been hurt on the job, you should consult with an attorney experienced in Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims to make sure you get everything to which you are entitled. We encourage you to contact us directly to set up your free consultation.

Related Links:

• What to Do When a Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied
• How Clients Sabotage Their Workers’ Compensation Claim