Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Reading

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Reading, Pennsylvania?

  The non-emergency phone number of the Reading Police Department is 610-655-6116.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Reading, Pennsylvania?

  For cases involving accidents, you can obtain a copy of your Reading crash report on the official website of the Reading Police Department: https://www.readingpa.gov/crash-reoprt. For other police reports, you may call the Records Office at 610-655-6054.

• How does Reading’s workers’ compensation system work?

  Reading adheres to Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system, which has two functions: First, it enables employees to receive medical treatment and lost wages in the event that they sustain injuries and illness while performing their duties at work. Second, it protects employers from getting sued by their employees in exchange for the insurance coverage they provide workers.

• Do you really need an attorney to file a workers’ compensation claim in Reading?

  No, you are not required to retain a lawyer to file a workers’ compensation claim in Reading. If your injury is extremely minor and your employer’s insurance carrier is completely cooperative with you, hiring a lawyer may not be necessary. However, if your case is quite complex and your employer’s insurance provider is making the claims process difficult, it would be a good idea to seek the help of a workers’ compensation attorney.

• Are you covered by workers’ compensation if you’re a part-time worker in Reading?

  Yes, you are covered by workers’ compensation in Reading, even if you are working part-time. This is because all workers under Pennsylvania law are covered under workers’ comp insurance regardless of their status as full-time or part-time workers. Furthermore, any worker’s immigration status is irrelevant when determining whether they are eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits.

• How do you report your work injury to your employer in Reading?

  If you sustain a work-related injury or develop an illness due to the nature of your job in Reading, you must report your condition to your employer in writing within 120 days of the incident or the date you discovered your illness/injury. If you don’t submit a written notice to your employer within the time window, you may be barred from proceeding with your workers’ compensation claim.

• From when are you covered by workers’ compensation in Reading?

  You are covered by workers’ compensation for the entire duration of your employment, provided that your employer in Reading carries workers’ compensation insurance. Put simply, your coverage starts on your first day on the job. Now, any injury or disease you previously had that is aggravated by your job is also covered under workers’ compensation, regardless of your prior physical condition.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.