Pennsylvania workers who are injured on the job are eligible to receive benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages. However, Workers’ Compensation rates vary depending on the year, which can make it difficult for injured employees to figure out how much they may be able to collect in benefits. If you were hurt at work, you should consult with a Workers’ Compensation attorney who can explain your options.
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Workers’ Compensation Rates By State
Although many people are aware that if they are injured on the job, they may be able to receive some form of compensation, most do not realize that Workers’ Compensation rates vary by state as well as by year. While the formula for calculating benefits remains the same, the maximum amount that an injured worker can receive on a weekly basis changes year to year according to economic trends and the Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) estimation of the statewide average weekly wage. For this reason, it is critical for those who are injured on the job to have the guidance of an experienced Workers’ Compensation attorney.
Average Weekly Wage for Pennsylvania
The average weekly wage is determined by the Department of Labor and Industry every year. According to the DOL announcement for 2017, the maximum compensation payable under Workers’ Compensation PA laws for those whose average weekly wage is $1,492.51 or higher is $995 per week. However, if an injured employee’s average weekly wage falls between $1,492.50 and $746.26, that maximum amount that could be received each week would be equal to two-thirds of his or her average weekly wage. If an employee’s average weekly wage falls somewhere between $746.25 and $552.78, he or she can collect a maximum of $497.50 in wage loss benefits per week. Finally, those whose average weekly wage is $552.77 or less, will be eligible to receive 90 percent of their weekly earnings.Benefit rates are set using the annual maximum that was in place at the time of the injury. This means that those who were hurt at work on or after January 1st of this year will receive benefits based on the amounts provided in the new schedule.
How An Attorney Can Help
Pennsylvania has some of the most generous Workers’ Compensation rates in the nation. Unfortunately, many injured employees still face significant hurdles when attempting to file a claim for benefits, appealing a denied claim, or negotiate with an employer’s insurer.
Furthermore, many insurers may mistakenly calculate an injured employee’s benefits based on last year’s calculation, which can affect how much a person can collect. Experienced Workers’ Compensation attorneys can ensure that average weekly wages are calculated correctly and that the insurer is receiving the most current benefit news.
Injured workers who file claims with their employer also often face unfair denials. In many situations, the denial is based on a minor error with the paperwork or a misunderstanding about the claimant’s contact information.
Other cases involve more serious problems, such as a failure to include medical documentation supporting the claim or a missed filing deadline. An experienced lawyer can also help protect an employee’s rights by filing an appeal with the appropriate parties. The workers’ compensation appeals process can be complicated, requiring the submission of an extensive amount of evidence, as well as written briefs. Lawyers are also often required to present oral arguments at the hearing. Having the guidance of an attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of these types of cases.
Contact A Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
Although employees who are hurt on the job are eligible to receive benefits in Pennsylvania, the rate at which the benefits are calculated varies depending on the year and how much the injured party earns per week. To ensure that your weekly wage is calculated correctly and that you receive the benefits that you deserve the experienced Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Krasno Krasno & Onwudinjo can help. You contact us or calling at 877-299-0779.