In order to file a claim for a work-related injury or illness, you first need to note how work-related insurance coverage works. If you sustain an injury or develop an illness while you are employed, you can have your medical costs paid in the state of Pennsylvania. In the event that you cannot work, you can also receive work-loss benefits until you can resume employment. Death benefits related to work are also paid to survivors.
Almost Everyone Who Works Is Covered
Nearly every employee is covered for workers’ compensation in Washington, PA. That is because employers must provide this type of coverage by law for their employees, including part-time and seasonal staff. Those people who are not covered may include agricultural laborers, volunteers, domestic workers, or casual employees.
Act Now, Not Later
When you speak to a lawyer who handles workers’ compensation claims, they can give you further details on the application process. Medical benefits with respect to the coverage are payable from the first day of the injury. In order to get the benefits, you should act quickly.
Report an Injury or Sickness Right Away
That means you should report a work-related sickness or injury to your supervisor or employer without delay. When you are providing your employer with details, tell him or her the time and date of the injury as well as the venue. If you fail to provide this information, it can lead to either a delay or denial of your benefits.
With respect to workers’ compensation law, you are also allowed to select a health care provider. So, you can choose the physician who will treat your sickness or injury. However, there is an exception to this rule as well. If your employer posts a listing of six or more health care providers at work, you are required to see one of the providers on the list first. Treatment should continue for 90 days following the initial visit.
According to the attorneys who handle these types of cases at such firms as Porta-Clark & Ward Attorneys at Law, the law provides the payment of several types of benefits under this classification. Recipients can receive remuneration in the form of lost wage payments, death benefits, specific loss benefits, and medical care.
