When You Get Hurt on the Job
Getting injured at work is something no one plans for. One minute you’re stocking shelves in Allentown, driving a delivery route through Bethlehem, or managing repairs at an apartment complex in Freemansburg—and the next, you’re dealing with pain, paperwork, and questions about what happens next. The good news is, Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect employees when accidents happen. But like a lot of things involving insurance and employers, the process isn’t always as straightforward as it should be. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we’ve helped workers across the Lehigh Valley understand their rights, navigate the claims process, and get the support they’re entitled to.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance your employer is required to carry. It provides wage replacement and medical benefits if you’re injured or become ill due to your job. You don’t need to prove fault—just that the injury happened while you were working. That could mean slipping on a wet floor in a restaurant, injuring your back while lifting materials on a construction site, or developing carpal tunnel syndrome from years of repetitive motion at a desk job. If it’s work-related, it may be covered.
Report Your Injury Immediately
Timing is everything when it comes to workers’ comp. In Pennsylvania, you must report your injury to your employer within 120 days, but the sooner, the better. Ideally, report it right away. Tell your supervisor, and make sure it’s documented in writing. Waiting too long can give the employer or insurance company room to challenge your claim. Once the injury is reported, your employer should file a First Report of Injury with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, and their insurance carrier will begin reviewing the claim.
Get Medical Treatment (and Follow the Rules)
After reporting the injury, you’ll likely be directed to a list of approved doctors for the first 90 days of treatment. It might feel a little restrictive, but it’s part of the process. If your employer has posted a list of panel physicians (which many in the Lehigh Valley do), you must see someone on that list. After 90 days, you’re allowed to switch to your own provider. Make sure to follow your doctor’s advice, attend all appointments, and keep copies of your medical records. This not only helps your recovery—it also creates a clear record of your injury and treatment.
What Benefits Are You Entitled To?
If your claim is accepted, you may receive coverage for medical bills, wage loss (usually around two-thirds of your average weekly wage), and potentially specific loss benefits for things like losing a limb, hearing, or vision. In some cases, if you’re unable to return to your previous job, you may qualify for vocational training or permanent disability benefits. Keep in mind, these benefits are not always offered automatically. Insurance carriers may dispute parts of your claim, offer lower compensation, or try to get you back to work before you’re ready.
When to Call a Lawyer
It’s not uncommon for injured workers to feel pressure from their employer or the insurance company. Maybe your claim was denied, or maybe you’ve been offered a lump sum settlement and you’re not sure if it’s fair. Or maybe you were told your injury isn’t “serious enough” to qualify. That’s when you need someone in your corner. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we’ve worked with workers throughout Bethlehem, Allentown, Freemansburg, Fountain Hill, Rittersville, and surrounding Lehigh Valley areas to protect their rights and challenge unfair decisions. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and guide you through every step—whether that means negotiating with insurers or representing you in hearings before a workers’ compensation judge.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
One of the biggest mistakes we see is people waiting too long to ask for help. They assume the system will work as it should—but it often doesn’t. If something feels off, or if you’re being told different things by different people, reach out. You don’t have to have all the answers. That’s our job.
Let’s Make Sure You’re Protected
If you’ve been injured at work and you’re not sure where to turn, visit www.snoverlaw.com to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we proudly serve injured workers across the Lehigh Valley and Eastern Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. We’ll make sure you understand your rights, get the benefits you deserve, and take the pressure off your shoulders—so you can focus on healing and getting back on your feet.
