When an accident happens during a construction project, workers can suffer severe injuries. Falling from heights, heavy machinery accidents and scaffold collapses are responsible for many injuries.
In Pennsylvania, most construction workers have access to workers’ compensation benefits. In other words, you are likely eligible for necessary medical treatment and financial support for your construction-related injuries.
Medical benefits
Like most of the nation’s workforce, construction personnel can obtain medical benefits after an occupational accident. These benefits cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to the injury. Examples include doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications and rehabilitation services.
Wage loss and other benefits
If the injury prevents you from returning to your job, you can receive wage loss benefits – typically a percentage of your average weekly wage – but subject to a limit. There are different types of wage loss benefits, including:
- Temporary disability benefits for those who are temporarily unable to work or can only work at a limited capacity or lower wage
- Permanent disability benefits for long-term or permanent injuries preventing employment in any capacity or when employment is possible, but permanent impairments still exist
Specific benefits for extreme losses, such as a limb, sight, or hearing, may also be provided under Pennsylvania law. Further, if a construction accident injury results in death, a worker’s dependents may be entitled to benefits, including ongoing financial support.
Expect complexities
Workers’ compensation claims involving injured construction workers can be more complex than in other industries. Often, there are questions about worker fault and liability, potentially threatening the approval of benefits. Legal support can strengthen your claim, leaving little (if any) room for an unfair denial of benefits.