Malcolm L. MacGregor | May 28, 2026 | Personal Injury Blog

Should You Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer in Pennsylvania?

If you have been hurt on the job, a workers’ compensation claim can help you cover medical expenses and lost wages. Some claims are fairly straightforward, and you may be able to handle those on your own. However, your employer might not always play by the rules, and you could have trouble getting the compensation you are owed. 

Keep reading below to learn all the details about Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims and when you might need to hire a lawyer.

The Basics of Workers’ Compensation in Pennsylvania

Most employers in Pennsylvania are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This includes coverage for full-time, part-time, and even seasonal employees. If you are hurt on the job, Pennsylvania workers’ compensation will cover:

  • Reasonable and necessary medical expenses
  • Lost wages (approximately two-thirds of your average weekly wages)

Pennsylvania workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you do not have to prove your employer caused your injury. However, you must report your injury promptly. Reporting within 21 days may allow you to recover retroactive wage loss benefits, while all injuries must be reported within 120 days to qualify for benefits.

Do I Need a Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?

After your accident, you may be wondering whether you need to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer to assist with your claim. If your injury is minor and you are receiving benefits as you should, then you might not need to hire a lawyer for your claim. 

However, if you experience any of these situations, then you should consider talking to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer for help:

  • Your claim was denied: Just because your claim was denied does not mean that it should have been. A lawyer can examine your claim and help you pursue an appeal of the denial.
  • The insurance company refuses to cover certain treatments: Your medical provider might recommend certain treatments that the workers’ compensation insurance company refuses to pay for. A lawyer can help you get those treatments covered.
  • You have a pre-existing condition: Pre-existing conditions can make workers’ compensation claims complex, and the insurance company may use your pre-existing condition as a way to minimize the value of your claim.
  • A third party was at fault: Workers’ compensation claims do not allow compensation for pain and suffering damages. However, if a third party’s negligence was responsible for your accident, you may be able to recover non-economic damages through a third-party claim. This can significantly increase the amount of compensation you may be able to recover.
  • Your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim: Some employees, unfortunately, find themselves facing retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim. This could include a hostile work environment, reduced hours, or even termination.
  • You suffered serious injuries or a permanent disability: Cases involving serious injuries or disabilities can get complex. Having a lawyer on your side during these cases can help ensure that you are getting all the compensation to which you are entitled.

If any of the above criteria apply to your job-related accident, make sure you talk to a lawyer. Also, be sure to do so before accepting a settlement or signing any paperwork.

How Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me?

A workers’ compensation lawyer will start by answering all your questions. They can also help protect your legal rights at every step of the way throughout the claims process. Some things your lawyer can do to help you include:

  • Performing a thorough investigation of your accident
  • Interviewing witnesses or co-workers to gather important evidence
  • Completing all necessary paperwork for the claims process
  • Handling communications with your employer and their insurance company
  • Putting a proper value on your claim based on the specifics of your injuries
  • Negotiating a full and fair settlement for your claim
  • Filing a lawsuit and taking your case to court when necessary

A workers’ compensation lawyer can be a valuable ally after a workplace injury. 

Contact McDonald & Macgregor, LLC To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Wilkes-Barre Workers’ Compensation Attorney

A workers’ compensation claim in Pennsylvania can become complicated quickly, especially if your claim is denied or your injuries are serious. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can protect your rights, handle disputes with the insurance company, and fight for the full benefits you deserve while you focus on your recovery.

If you have been hurt on the job, contact the team at McDonald & MacGregor, LLC today. Schedule a free consultation with a Wilkes-Barre workers’ compensation lawyer and let us help you.

We proudly serve Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Luzerne County, Lackawanna County, and surrounding areas.

McDonald & MacGregor, LLC
220 Penn Ave Suite 320, Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 209-7062