We Represent All Types of Injured Workers
At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly George, we have helped all types workers in Western Pennsylvania secure the workers' comp benefits they deserve, including:
- Construction workers
- Factory and warehouse employees
- Agricultural workers
- Healthcare providers
- Industrial workers
- Oil and gas workers
- Corrections officers
- First responders, including police offices, firefighters, and paramedics
- Office workers
- Commercial vehicle operators
If your employer is pressuring you to return to work, or if their insurance company is disputing your claim, Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. can protect you and your rights. Contact our Pennsylvania workers' comp lawyers for experienced legal guidance.
Can You Return to Work and Still Get Workers’ Comp?
FindLaw states that you can still collect Workers’ Compensation wage benefits after returning to your company, in some cases. For example, if your employer offered you a reduced schedule or a lower-paying position, you might still get compensation for the loss in wages. Different states have different requirements for employers retraining and rehiring workers after an injury-related hiatus. Therefore, you would have to resolve any disputes you have in the context of Pennsylvania’s unique laws.
Medical Concerns With a Return to Work
If your employer is pressuring you to return to work and you do not feel that you are ready, there could be a conflict of interest. Sometimes, your employers might be pressuring you because they believe it would be cheaper to get you back to work than to hire a temporary replacement. In other cases, they might have some misconceptions about the way that Workers’ Compensation insurance works, they might be receiving pressure from their insurance company or any number of other reasons. In other words, your employer’s pressure likely comes from a financial or business concern. It is unlikely to come from a professional medical opinion.
Many injuries, especially serious injuries on the job, take some time to recover. You deserve a chance to become as healthy as possible before you risk injury once again for an employer. If you were injured at work and are considering returning to work, be sure to speak with an experienced workers' comp attorney in New Castle at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly George for experienced counsel.
How Can Workers’ Comp Attorneys Help Me?
If you have been hurt while on a job, a worker's compensation injury attorney in New Castle at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly George can be of great help. They can direct you through the confusing workers' compensation system and ensure your rights are safeguarded.
Firstly, they will thoroughly review your case, looking at the specifics of your work injury to determine the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your ability to work. They can also ensure that you receive the necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation services to aid in your recovery.
Workers' compensation lawyers can precisely determine the benefits you are eligible for, such as medical expenses, income loss, and disability payments. You do not have to do this on your own. Our lawyers can take care of all the interactions involving insurance companies, advocating for an equitable settlement that adequately covers the cost of your injuries.
If your claim has been denied, we are happy to guide you through the appeals process and fight to overturn the decision. Reach out to Luxenberg Garbett Kelly George by calling (724) 576-8855 and speak to a qualified workers’ comp attorneys in New Castle as soon as you can.
Insurance Companies Do Not Intimidate Us
At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly George, we know that worker's comp insurance companies will often dispute or deny a valid claim simply to avoid having to pay them out. These tactics do not intimidate us.
Our worker's comp attorneys in Pennsylvania have extensive experience fighting back against insurance companies that seek to disadvantage everyday people, and we are prepared to aggressively advocate for your rights. Our National Board of Trial Advocacy Board-Certified Civil Trial Specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.
We care deeply about the people and communities we serve and strive to develop lasting relationships with each and every client. At LGKG, we truly care.
Wherever you live in Lawrence County, our New Castle workers' compensation attorneys are here for you. Call (724) 576-8855 or contact us online for a free consultation.
What Types of Workplace Accidents & Injuries Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation covers all work-related accidents, injuries, and diseases for eligible employees in Pennsylvania. Because it is a no-fault system, you do not need to prove that your employer or any other party was negligent or otherwise at fault for your injuries or medical condition to receive workers’ compensation benefits. In exchange, you typically cannot sue your employer for damages after a workplace accident or after being diagnosed with an occupational injury or illness.
Our Pennsylvania workers' compensation attorneys represent workers with almost every type of job-related injury and illness, including but not limited to:
- Commercial vehicle and on-the-job auto accidents
- Falls from heights
- Construction accidents
- Being struck by falling objects
- Incidents caused by defective products, tools, and equipment
- Machine entanglement and other machinery accidents
- Injuries from lifting or other manual labor
- Amputation/loss of limb
- Burns from fires, explosions, and contact with hot items or surfaces
- Repetitive stress/motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Occupational illnesses and toxic exposure
- Head and traumatic brain injuries
- Neck, back, and spine injuries
- Broken bones and “crush” or caught-between injuries
- Overexertion, sprains, and strains
We also represent workers who have become seriously ill from toxic exposure to hazardous chemicals or asbestos, as well as law enforcement and medical workers infected with hepatitis C or another infectious disease via workplace exposure.
When Should You Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer?
Workplace injuries can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. When you suffer an injury on the job, workers' compensation is designed to provide you with the necessary benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages. However, there are situations where navigating the workers' compensation system can become complex, and it's in your best interest to hire a workers' comp lawyer.
Here are some key scenarios in which seeking legal representation is advisable:
- Denial of Your Claim: If your workers' compensation claim is denied, don't panic. It's a common occurrence, and it doesn't necessarily mean you won't receive the benefits you deserve. An experienced workers' comp attorney can help you appeal the denial, increasing your chances of success.
- Disputes Over the Severity of Your Injury: Sometimes, the insurance company may dispute the extent of your injury or the resulting disabilities. When your injuries are severe or have lasting consequences, it's crucial to have a lawyer who can provide evidence and legal arguments to support your case.
- Delayed or Inadequate Benefits: If your workers' comp benefits are significantly delayed or insufficient to cover your medical bills and lost wages, it's time to consult an attorney. They can ensure you receive the appropriate compensation promptly.
- Retaliation or Employer Discrimination: If you're facing discrimination or retaliation from your employer for filing a workers' comp claim, it's essential to have legal protection. A workers' comp lawyer can help safeguard your rights and hold your employer accountable.
- Pre-Existing Conditions and Aggravation: If you had pre-existing medical conditions that were exacerbated by a work-related injury, proving your claim can be challenging. An attorney can help distinguish between pre-existing conditions and new workplace-related injuries to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- Complex Legal Procedures: Workers' compensation laws can be intricate and vary by state. An attorney is well-versed in these regulations and can guide you through the legal procedures and paperwork to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Negotiations and Settlements: If the insurance company offers you a settlement, it's crucial to have a lawyer review the terms to ensure they are fair and cover all your future needs. Negotiating a proper settlement is a vital part of the process.
What Benefits Does Workers’ Compensation Offer?
By state law, your employer must pay for medical bills from a workplace injury and replacement of wages if you cannot return to your job.
Workers’ compensation also pays for:
- Disfigurement
- Loss of use
- Or permanent disability
At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George, our New Castle workers’ comp lawyers can help file initial claims or fight your employer’s insurance carrier to appeal a rejection or termination of benefits.
If you want to know more about the exact benefits you may be eligible to receive, as well as the amount you can expect to recover, please contact us today by calling (724) 576-8855 and set up a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
What to Do If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied
If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, or if your benefits have been disputed or terminated, you have the right to file an appeal. Appealing a denied workers’ compensation claim involves numerous steps, and the process can be challenging. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George, however, we will walk with you through every step.
Our workers’ compensation appeals attorneys can help you file the appropriate documentation and speak on your behalf during your hearing and other proceedings. When you turn to our firm with a denied claim, we will start by filing a petition with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and take steps to ensure your case goes before a workers’ compensation judge.
During the hearing, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate why you have a rightful claim to these benefits. Our team will work directly with you to ensure that you are fully prepared for this hearing and any other legal or administrative proceedings. We understand what is at stake for you and your family, and we are ready to handle all aspects of your case on your behalf.
Our Pennsylvania workers' compensation lawyers employ their extensive resources and experience for the benefit of their clients. We also cover all litigation costs during your case, including physician depositions. If we are successful on your behalf, the insurance company will pay our expenses, but if we do not win, you will not owe us anything.
Workers’ Compensation FAQ
What Should I Do After a Work Injury?
There is a limited amount of time to report a work injury to your employer. It may also be beneficial to seek legal guidance as you complete your workers’ compensation claim.
How Much Will I Receive?
The amount depends on the nature of your injury, what you need for recovery, and how long you will need to recover before you return to work.
How Long Will My Benefits Last?
There is no set time for how long benefits last. The length of time you will receive payments depends on your injuries and the time you need away from work, as well as continued medical care.
Can I Sue My Employer After a Work-Related Accident or Injury?
Filing for workers’ compensation benefits means you cannot sue your employer, but in some cases, an injured worker has grounds for a third-party personal injury claim.
How Can a Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Attorney Help Me?
An experienced legal ally can help you with every aspect of the workers’ compensation claims process, from completing the initial application to litigating a denied claim.
A skilled New Castle workers' compensation attorney serves as your advocate during all legal proceedings, helping you understand your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. This allows you to focus on getting the medical care you need to heal from your injuries and move forward with your life.
Injured at work in Lawrence County? Reach out to our experienced New Castle workers' comp lawyers by phone at (724) 576-8855 or contact us onlinetoday to schedule a free initial consultation.
