JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Our Philadelphia work injury attorneys tell you how to protect your PA Workers’ Compensation claim after an on-the-job auto accident.

If you are injured in a work-related car accident, your medical bills should be covered by PA Workers’ Compensation. But, these benefits are not automatic. You must follow these steps to protect your claim, so you can get the compensation you deserve.

Ten Steps to Protecting Your Claim

1. Call 911. Ask for an officer to come to the scene. Ask the officer how you can obtain a copy of the accident report. The accident report will provide documentation that the crash occurred during work hours.
2. Notify your employer. Contact your supervisor as soon as possible after the accident. You can call your employer, but make sure that you follow up in writing. You must give your employer notice within 21 days of the accident or your payment will be delayed. You lose the right to file a claim if your employer does not have written notice of your injury within 120 days.
3. Seek medical care. If you can’t get a same-day appointment, go to the emergency room. It is important that you protect your health. But, there is another reason to get immediate medical attention. If you wait to get care, your employer may claim that your injury was not work-related. Visiting the doctor will create a record of your injuries, so see a doctor even if you don’t think you are seriously hurt. Go to all follow-up appointments. Missing an appointment could be bad for your case.
4. Document the accident. Take pictures of the accidents scene, your injuries, and the damage to the vehicles. This will help your attorney determine if any third parties are liable for your injuries. You should also get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
5. File your Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation claim. In Pennsylvania, an injured worker has three years from the date of injury to file a Workers’ Compensation claim. Learn more about applying for workers’ compensation in your free copy of Your Guide To PA Workers’ Compensation.
6. Use care when dealing with the insurance company. Anything you say can be used against you. Never agree to give a recorded statement to any insurance company.  Do not sign any papers or forms until you have discussed them with your attorney.
7. Get a disability slip after every appointment. If your doctor releases you for light-duty work, contact your employer immediately. Let your attorney know about any changes in work status.
8. Keep of all PA Workers’ Compensation checks received. Make a copy of the check and keep the check stub.
9. Keep copies of all medical bills, car repair bills, and other expenses related to the accident.  Your attorney will need this information in order to determine if you’ve received fair compensation.
10. Contact Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo, P.C.  We can answer any questions you have about your claim. Call 888-807-WORK (9675) and ask to schedule a free consultation.