When construction workers get hurt at work, they typically have the option to pursue workers’ compensation coverage. Those working as subcontractors or contractors may not have an employer, and in those cases, they will need to seek personal injury claims rather than workers’ compensation if they’ve been hurt.
For workers who are employees, workers’ compensation is there to cover their financial losses related to an injury and medical care. Benefits might include vocational rehabilitation and others that help workers get back to work after they’ve healed or get compensated fairly if they cannot return to the job.
What do you need to do if you’re hurt on the job?
If you are hurt on the job, the first thing you need to do is report your injury to your employer. Once your employer is aware of the injuries you’ve suffered, they should help you start your workers’ compensation claim.
Some people may not want to claim fear of retaliation or because they think they haven’t been working for their employer for long enough. Remember that your employer must cover you with workers’ compensation insurance from the first day you work for them. Additionally, if your employer retaliates against you because you claim an injury, you may be able to pursue legal action.
What happens if your workers’ compensation claim is denied?
Once you make a claim, it should go through the claims process. If you are denied the coverage that you need, you have the right to appeal that decision. You also have a right to legal representation to help you make your worker’s compensation claim and get you the compensation you deserve.
You deserve workers’ compensation when you’re injured on the job.
Workers’ compensation coverage is mandatory in Pennsylvania, which means that all employers without an exemption have to have this coverage in place for every employee they hire. If your employer says that they do not have coverage, you may be able to pursue compensation through other means, and your employer could face fines and penalties for violating the law.