When an Injury on the Job Changes Everything
Getting injured at work can throw your entire life into chaos. One minute you’re clocking in at a warehouse in Allentown or handling maintenance at an apartment complex in Bethlehem, and the next, you’re dealing with doctor visits, missed paychecks, and a whole lot of stress about what comes next. It’s not just about healing physically—it’s also about figuring out how to protect your rights. In Pennsylvania, you do have options, and understanding them is the first step toward getting back on your feet. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we help workers across the Lehigh Valley navigate the legal side of workplace injuries with real advice, straightforward support, and local experience you can count on.
Workers’ Compensation Is a Starting Point
Pennsylvania requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover employees who are hurt on the job. This system is designed to provide benefits like medical care and wage replacement without needing to sue your employer. Sounds simple enough, right? The reality, though, is that claims get denied, benefits get delayed, and insurance adjusters often try to minimize what you’re paid. If you get hurt while working—whether it’s a back injury from heavy lifting in Freemansburg or a fall from a ladder in Fountain Hill—filing a workers’ comp claim is usually your first legal move. But it’s not your only one.
You May Have More Than Just a Workers’ Comp Claim
One of the biggest misconceptions about workplace injury law is that you can’t pursue any other legal action besides workers’ comp. That’s not always true. While you generally can’t sue your employer, you can file a lawsuit if a third party caused your injury. For example, if a subcontractor on a construction site created a dangerous situation that led to your injury, or if defective equipment caused the accident, those parties could be held legally responsible. These third-party claims can provide compensation beyond what workers’ comp offers—like pain and suffering or full wage replacement.
What to Do After a Workplace Injury
Right after an accident, report the injury to your supervisor and make sure it’s documented. Pennsylvania law gives you up to 120 days to notify your employer, but sooner is always better. Ask for a copy of the incident report. Seek medical care from an approved provider if your employer has a list posted, and make sure to follow up on all treatment plans. Keep track of your appointments, medications, and how your injury is affecting your daily life. These records are important not just for your health, but for your claim. And if anyone—from your employer to the insurance company—tries to discourage you from filing or threatens your job, that’s a red flag. You have rights, and it may be time to talk to an attorney.
Common Workplace Injury Scenarios in Lehigh Valley
We’ve helped folks who’ve been injured doing all kinds of jobs—from healthcare workers in Bethlehem, to forklift operators in Allentown, to restaurant staff in Rittersville. Whether it’s a repetitive stress injury, exposure to toxic substances, or a sudden accident, workplace injuries happen in every industry. Some workers develop conditions over time, like carpal tunnel or hearing loss. Others deal with traumatic injuries like broken bones or burns. Regardless of how it happened, if your job caused it, the law says you should be protected.
When You Should Contact a Lawyer
Not every workplace injury requires a lawyer, but if your claim is denied, your benefits are delayed, you’re being pressured to return to work before you’re ready, or you think a third party might be responsible, it’s time to talk to someone who knows the law. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we’ve helped injured workers in Bethlehem, Allentown, Freemansburg, Fountain Hill, Rittersville, and throughout Eastern Lehigh Valley understand their options and take control of their recovery. We’ll look at every angle of your case—not just workers’ comp, but potential lawsuits and long-term benefits as well.
Know Your Rights. Protect Your Future.
You shouldn’t have to fight for fair treatment after getting hurt on the job—but if you do, we’re here to help. Visit www.snoverlaw.com to schedule a confidential consultation. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we’re committed to serving the hardworking people of the Lehigh Valley and Eastern Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania with honest guidance, strong representation, and personal support from start to finish.
