How Long Does It Take to Get Workers’ Comp in Pennsylvania?

Your medical bills, lost income, and other expenses add up quickly after a work-related injury in Pennsylvania. Workers’ compensation can help alleviate your financial stress, but how long will the process take? Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer, as the timeline of each Pennsylvania workers’ comp claim depends on elements specific to the case. However, knowing some factors that affect these cases can help you gauge how long the process might take and take appropriate steps.

What Factors Affect the Timeline of Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp Cases?

Some factors that affect how long it takes to get workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania include:

• How quickly you report the injury – Delays in reporting your injury to your employer can slow everything down. In Pennsylvania, you must report your injury within 21 days to receive benefits. Failing to notify your employer promptly may lead to claim disputes or an outright denial.
• Whether your employer accepts or denies the claim – You might receive benefits within a few weeks if your employer accepts your claim. However, the case may require litigation if they dispute your claim, which can extend the process by several months or more.
• If your employer and their insurer accept your claim – If your injuries prevent you from working for seven days, you are entitled to lost wages benefits. If you have been off work for fourteen days, you will receive retroactive payment for the first seven days. You should receive your first check within 21 days. These benefits may be paid on the same schedule as your regular paychecks.
• The severity of your injuries – More severe injuries usually require more evaluation time. If you’re still receiving treatment or haven’t reached maximum medical improvement (meaning further treatments won’t improve your condition), your case may remain open while doctors monitor your progress.
• Delays in medical documentation – Your workers’ comp claim relies heavily on medical records and doctor reports. Therefore, your case could stall if your healthcare providers are slow to submit documents.
• Whether legal action becomes necessary – If your employer denies your claim, you may need to petition the Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. The litigation process often takes several months, as it includes time-consuming hearings, depositions, and reviews.
• Backlogs in the workers’ compensation system – Administrative delays, including scheduling hearings or reviews, can slow the timeline of a workers’ comp claim.
• How quickly you respond to requests – Failing to return paperwork, attend medical exams, or meet legal deadlines can delay your benefits.
• Settlement negotiations – If you and the insurance company try to resolve the case through a lump-sum settlement, negotiations can stretch out the process.

Key Deadlines in Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp Claims

There are two essential deadlines to remember for your workers’ compensation claim. First, you must report your injury within 21 days to avoid delays and receive backdated benefits. Second, you must submit a claim for benefits with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation within three years of your injury (if your employer denies your claim or tries to reduce your benefits). Meeting these deadlines is crucial for keeping your claim on track.

Tips for Speeding Up the Workers’ Comp Claim Process

Here are a few suggestions to avoid unnecessary delays with your workers’ comp claim:

• Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible.
• Seek medical treatment right away and follow all your doctor’s instructions.
• Keep copies of all your medical records, bills, and related documents.
• Respond quickly to any requests from your employer, insurer, or lawyer.
• Attend all scheduled appointments, hearings, and evaluations.
• Stay in close contact with your attorney to avoid missed deadlines or paperwork issues.

Contact a Greensburg, PA, Workers’ Comp Lawyer Now

With over 30 years of experience with workers’ comp and personal injury claims, Attorney Cindy Stine and her team can help you quickly recover the financial support you need after a work injury. Not only can we handle your workers’ compensation claim, but we can also see if you qualify for additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. Call Stine & Associates, P.C., today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.