If you have recently sustained an injury at work, in Lancaster County, you are probably wondering what steps you need to take to properly file a workers’ compensation claim. Whatever you do, do not make any of the following work injury-related mistakes, because your case, and the amount of compensation you are entitled to, could be affected.
1. Not reporting your accident to your employer in a timely manner
Some people are worried about or afraid of reporting an accident to their employer because they do not want to cause trouble or draw attention to themselves. Do not wait until it is too late; make sure you tell your supervisor about your injury right away. Under Pennsylvania law, failing to report the work injury within 120 days could cause you to lose your eligibility to receive benefits under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act. However, do not even flirt with this deadline—report your injury to your employer immediately.
2. Failing to gather information from the accident scene
As is the case after a car accident, you need to collect as much information as you can from the scene of the injury. Write down the names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses, as well as details about the accident. And, if possible, retain any physical evidence. This will all help your lawyer to build a strong case in your favor.
3. Not going to the doctor or ignoring treatment recommendations
Again, you must visit a doctor as soon as possible to determine the extent of your injury. For the first 90 days following a work injury, you are obligated to treat with one of the employer’s panel medical providers. Make sure to ask for a copy of this list right away; if there is no list, you may treat with a medical provider of your choice, so long as the treatment is reasonable, necessary and directly related to your work injury. Be completely transparent about your medical history, and follow your doctors’ recommendations for treatment. If a doctor tells workers’ comp that you are delaying treatment, or not following a treatment plan, it could affect your benefits claim.
4. Failing to maintain thorough records
Keep all of the documentation you receive from your employer, the workers’ comp insurance company and your doctors and physical therapists. It is critical that your attorney has this information to review, in order to develop a solid understanding of the posture of your claim and to be able to properly move forward with the necessary action. This will help ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation to which you are entitled.
5. Not contacting a lawyer immediately
You will need a lawyer who specializes in PA work injury cases such as yours to guide you smoothly through the process of making a claim, so contact an established, experienced and highly reputed firm immediately after the accident. GLS Injury Law’s expert lawyers will be there with you, the injured worker, every step of the way to fight for the compensation you are entitled to. And, you will never be billed for our time—we are only eligible for a fee if, and only if, we earn you benefits, successfully defend you benefits or win you a lump sum settlement.
