JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

It was an unlucky Friday the 13^th for one Philadelphia laundry worker. A male clerk was working at the Laundry Depot in the city’s West Oak Lane section at about 4:30 a.m. on December 13, 2013. Two men entered the business wearing masks. They handcuffed the clerk and forced him to the floor. A customer was also told to lie down. The men used tools to open the ATM and drove off with the money they removed.

Earlier that month an employee at the City News Tobacco store on the 2600 block of South Franklin Street suffered a similar attack. A young man entered the store at 12:25 a.m. on December 2, 2013. The man acted as if he was making a purchase and then jumped over the counter and attacked the worker. The suspect grabbed cash from the register and left the store.

Each year, nearly one million individuals become victims of violent crime while at work.  Pennsylvania employees who are injured during crimes at their workplace are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits cover medical expenses, counseling, and a portion of your earnings if you are unable to work. Full-time, part-time, hourly and salaried employees can receive workers’ compensation.

However, these benefits are not guaranteed. You must take steps to protect your claim.

• Get any necessary emergency medical care. Let the doctor know that you were at work at the time of the injury.
• Notify your employer of the incident. Keep detailed records of all communication, and ask to keep a copy of all forms.
• Report the crime to the police.

If your claim is denied, don’t give up. You may still be eligible for benefits. Most workers’ compensation attorneys offer free consultations. Take advantage of this offer to learn why your claim was denied, and you can fight to protect your rights.