Job-related injuries are a significant concern for workers across various industries in Pennsylvania, as they can have a significant impact on the person’s quality of life and the ability to provide for themselves and their dependents.
Needless to say, concerns grow even more as the frequency of the incidents increases. Hand injuries, being some of the most common in Pennsylvania (and throughout the US), warrant special attention, as harm to these parts of the body can have severe implications.
If you’ve sustained a hand injury at work, it’s essential to report the injury promptly and seek medical attention. However, it is just as important to consult with a hand injury attorney in Philadelphia or Allentown, who can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Let’s see why.
Can I claim for hand injury at work?
In Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect employees who suffer job-related injuries, including hand injuries. The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act mandates that employers carry insurance to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for injured workers.
Medical Benefits
Workers’ compensation covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatments related to the injury. This includes hospital visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any assistive devices needed for recovery.
Wage-Loss Benefits
If a hand injury prevents a worker from performing their job, they may be eligible for wage-loss benefits. These benefits typically amount to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, subject to certain limits.
Specific Loss Benefits
For severe injuries, such as amputations or permanent loss of function in a hand or fingers, Pennsylvania law provides specific loss benefits. These benefits compensate workers for the permanent impact of their injury on their ability to use their hand.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Workers who are unable to return to their previous job due to a hand injury may receive vocational rehabilitation services. These services help injured workers retrain for a different occupation, ensuring they can continue to earn a livelihood.
How much can you claim for a hand injury?
Pinpointing the exact amount you can claim in benefits for a hand injury is virtually impossible, as it is calculated based on many factors, including but not limited to:
- The severity of the injury;
- The extent of the disability (partial or total);
- The impact on the ability to work;
- Medical expenses;
- Future medical costs (e.g. rehabilitation, additional surgeries, adaptive equipment, etc.)
As an example/guideline, the average workers’ compensation settlement for hand injuries in PA can range from $15,000 to $35,000 – if a person can return to full-duty work. However, that number can be much higher, reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars, if an injured worker can’t return to their previous job or suffers additional damages due to the incurred hand injury.
Where can I find a proven hand injury attorney near me Philadelphia, PA or Allentown, PA?
If you’re looking for a workers’ compensation lawyer with a proven track record of excellence, Liberty Bell should be your first choice. Our team is recognized for extensive experience and knowledge of the PA legal system but, even more importantly, for our personalized approach to each and every case.
With us, you can rest assured that you’ll receive legal representation and mindful guidance every step of the way, netting you the best possible chance of winning maximum compensation for your specific case. We serve Philadelphia from our HQ near Philadelphia City Hall and Allentown from our offices near Da Vinci Science Center, offering FREE, no-obligation first consultation to all potential clients – so don’t wait. Reach out to us today to secure your tomorrow!
