Some workers in Pennsylvania are exposed to dangers at their jobs on a daily basis, even when they take every precaution to protect themselves from harm. Construction workers, factory workers and those in the transportation industry may have a heightened risk of on-the-job injury, but the reality is that injuries can occur in almost any profession. For those who might suffer an on-the-job injury, or who already have, it is important to understand some of the basics of the workers’ compensation system in Pennsylvania.
Workers’ comp basics
For starters, almost all workers in Pennsylvania are eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits if they suffer an on-the-job injury or illness, although there are a few exceptions. Determining your eligibility for these benefits is the first step. Next, in most cases, it doesn’t matter how the injury occurred – if it occurred while you were working, it is most likely an eligible injury. Again, there are exceptions. For example, if the injury was self-inflicted or occurred while the worker was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, then the injury might not be covered.
Next, in order to get workers’ compensation benefits, you have to go through the proper procedure. The injury must be immediately reported to your employer. Then, the claim for workers’ compensation benefits can be evaluated.
Complexities of a workers’ comp claim
Like almost all government-run programs, there are complexities and nuances to the workers’ compensation system in Pennsylvania. If you 6have suffered an on-the-job injury, be sure to get the right information about your own unique experience and the available options.