Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Scranton

FAQs

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

  To report a non-emergency situation in Scranton, you can call the local police department at 570-348-4130.

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

  In Scranton, you may be asked to pay to get a copy of a police incident report from the Records Division. However, you can be exempted if you're the victim.

• What is workers' compensation law in Scranton?

  Under the 1915 Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Act, workers in Scranton can receive compensation for their injuries. The law protects workers and employers from lawsuits, regardless of who is responsible for the accident. If you are granted workers' compensation, you will get medical expenses covered, disability payments, and death benefits for family members. However, workers' compensation laws can be complex, and it's essential to have a workers' compensation lawyer who can help you navigate the process and secure your rightful compensation.

• Which work-related injuries or illnesses qualify for workers' compensation claims in Scranton?

  In Scranton, workers who suffer from work-related injuries are eligible for workers' compensation benefits. Injuries that result from a job-related accident or condition, including repetitive motion-related conditions or exposure to hazardous substances, are covered under Pennsylvania's Workers' Compensation Act. Workers who travel to job sites are also covered for injuries at remote locations. However, injuries resulting from fights or horseplay, self-inflicted injuries, commute injuries, or injuries resulting from committing a crime or violating workplace policy are not covered.

• What's the main reason to hire a lawyer in Scranton to help you with your workers' compensation claim?

  The main reason to hire a lawyer for your workers' compensation claim in Scranton is that a good lawyer thoroughly understands the legal system and relevant laws. A great lawyer also understands the people and the area and knows how to stand up to insurance companies. Hiring an experienced, knowledgeable, and active lawyer in the community is essential.

• What is the process of filing a workers' compensation claim in Scranton?

  Report your injury to your employer and seek medical care to file a workers' compensation claim in Scranton. Fill out the claim form and report of injury form provided by your employer. The insurance company will then approve or deny your claim. You can accept the benefits offer or negotiate for a settlement if approved. Request a review or file a formal appeal through the Pennsylvania state workers' compensation board if your claim is denied.

• What types of injuries are not covered under Scranton's workers' compensation laws?

  In Scranton, workers' compensation claims typically cover occupational illnesses, repetitive motion injuries, and pre-existing conditions aggravated by work. However, there are limits to what they can cover regardless of where the incident occurred. The claims do not cover injuries resulting from fights or horseplay, self-inflicted injuries, injuries during a commute, or injuries resulting from committing a crime or violating company policies.

• 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.