The Basics of Workers' Compensation in Pennsylvania

November 10, 2012

The Basics of Workers' Compensation in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania workers who are unable to work because of a job-related injury or illness may worry about their financial situation, as the medical bills incurred because of the accident or injury can be overwhelming. However, many Pennsylvania workers have a benefit that is designed to help them in such a predicament--workers' compensation benefits.

What Is Workers' Compensation?

Workers' compensation benefits are paid pursuant to the Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Act (WCA). The WCA provides for benefits in the event of a work-related injury or illness. The benefits are paid by either the employer's private insurance company or the State Workers' Insurance Fund.

Who Is Covered?

Almost all workers, including seasonal and part-time workers, in Pennsylvania are covered by the WCA. Practically every Pennsylvania employer must provide workers' compensation benefits to their workers--even nonprofit companies, unincorporated businesses and companies with only one employee.

It is important to note that some employees are not covered by the WCA because other compensation laws cover them. Such employees include federal employees, railroad workers, longshoremen and other shipyard or harbor workers. In addition, volunteer workers, domestic workers and agricultural laborers may not be covered.

What is Covered?

The WCA covers injuries, illnesses and diseases that are caused by the employee's job. In addition, the WCA, in many cases, covers instances when the employee's job aggravates a pre-existing injury.

The benefits under the WCA include payments for medical expenses and loss of wages (in the event that the worker is unable to work). Employees are eligible for benefits starting on the date that they are hired. Medical benefits are payable from the first day that the employee is injured. Medical benefits cover reasonable medical and surgical services as well as medicine, hospital treatment and medical supplies.

In order to qualify for wage-loss benefits, the employee must be unable to work for more than seven days (including weekends). Benefits become payable starting on the eighth day. If the employee is unable to work for 14 days, he or she is eligible for retroactive payments that will cover the first seven days of missed work.

An Attorney Can Help

The Pennsylvania workers' compensation system can be very complex and confusing. Any mistake can potentially result in a loss or denial of benefits. If you have been injured on the job, it can be very helpful to consult an experienced workers' compensation attorney. In addition to answering your questions, an attorney can guide you through the application and appeals process and ensure that your best interests are protected.

Article provided by Brant & Associates, P.C.
Visit us at http://www.brantlaw.net