Blair County Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

If you have been injured while at work or if you cannot work because of a disability caused by your work environment, you may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Filing a successful workers’ comp claim is complex and can be frustrating. You need an attorney who can help you navigate the system and obtain the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve. Attorney Kathy Mauk has represented both employers and employees, giving you an attorney with insight into how the employer and their insurance company approach your claim. From 2012 to 2018, she handled cases from our firm’s satellite office, Law Offices of Louis S. Walton, LLC, which focused solely on workers’ compensation cases before bringing her entire practice under one roof here at Evey Black Attorneys LLC.

At the law office of Evey Black Attorneys LLC, we handle everything in regard to your workers’ compensation claim, from gathering accident reports, medical records and statements to filing the paperwork. We take care of your needs so you can focus on your recovery.

Our lawyers understand the need for confidentiality and treat workers’ compensation claims with sensitivity. Contact us for a free initial consultation.

Protect Your Rights With Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorneys In Pennsylvania

If you are injured at the workplace, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical costs, travel to and from the doctor’s office, and rehabilitation and job training. Even if things appear to be going well immediately following your work injury among you, your employer and the workers’ compensation insurance company, it is vital you get an attorney to assist you before decisions are unknowingly made that could adversely impact your claim.

Our firm has been representing injured workers throughout Central Pennsylvania for more than 70 years. We have successfully aided clients in recovering the full workers’ comp benefits they deserve for serious on-the-job accidents, such as:

• Construction site accidents (forklift accidents, falls from height, crane accidents, etc.)
• Industrial accidents (machinery accidents, chemical spills)
• Explosions
• Electrocution
• Car accidents at work
• Slip-and-fall accidents at work
• Repetitive stress injuries

How Do We Approach Your Workers’ Compensation Case?

We understand that a work injury can fundamentally change your life and the lives of your family members. We respect you and know that you have worked hard and certainly didn’t ask to suffer a work injury. We promptly return calls and meet with you in person as frequently as needed. We will be with you every step of the way.

Our attorneys have been handling workers’ compensation cases for over 70 years. We know that being off work and not being able to pay bills and support your family creates major stress and difficulty; for these reasons, we make you, the injured client, and your family the highest priority.

We work diligently to preserve your benefits or get you the benefits you deserve. We treat you with compassion, understanding and respect, and will not back down in the face of an aggressive employer or insurance carrier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating a Pennsylvania workers’ comp claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you are still recovering from your injury and trying to keep up with your medical bills. The good news is that you have rights, and getting practical information early can make a big difference in your case.

How long do I have to report a work injury in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, you should report your work injury to your employer as quickly as possible and no later than 120 days after the injury or after you realize your illness is related to your job. However, if you do not notify your employer within 21 days, your workers’ compensation benefits may only begin from the date you gave notice rather than the date of the injury.

Waiting too long can also make it harder to prove your claim, so it is always best to report the injury right away. Missing this legal deadline will result in losing your right to compensation altogether.

What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

Do not lose hope if the insurer denies your initial claim. A denial may happen for reasons like missing paperwork or an insurer arguing that the injury was preexisting. In many cases, a denial is the start of the process, not the end of the road, and you can still challenge the decision and pursue benefits.

The first step you need to take is to review the notice and note any deadlines that apply. You must file an appeal or a “claim petition” to move forward with your case. In some situations, Form LIBC-496 may also be involved, so make sure you understand what forms the insurer or bureau has sent you and whether any response is required.

It is important to note that missing a deadline or failing to submit the proper paperwork can hurt your chances of success. An attorney can help you determine the next steps and guide you throughout the entire appeals process.

Can filing a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claim lead to my dismissal?

No, your employer cannot punish you simply because you exercised your rights. Pennsylvania law protects workers from retaliation for filing a workers’ comp claim or reporting a workplace injury. This means your employer should not fire you, demote you or treat you unfairly just because you sought benefits.

How much does it cost to hire a workers’ compensation attorney?

Workers’ compensation lawyers usually charge a contingency fee, so clients do not need to make any upfront payments. Instead of an upfront payment, the client compensates the attorney with a percentage of the benefits recovered and the workers’ compensation process regulates and approves that fee. This arrangement allows injured workers to get help without having to pay out of pocket at the start.

Don’t Navigate The Claims Process Alone – Contact Us For Help And Support

To learn more about the workers’ compensation claims process and get answers to other questions, contact our offices in Hollidaysburg or Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, by calling us at 814-317-6914.