Workers’ Compensation Lawyer West Mifflin

If you’ve been injured on the job in West Mifflin, you deserve a dedicated advocate who will fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve. At Porta Clark & Ward, our team of workers’ compensation lawyers is committed to guiding you through the complexities of the claims process, ensuring you receive the benefits you’re entitled to. Whether you’re dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, or long-term disabilities, we are here to help. Contact us today at (412) 912-2381 for a free consultation and let us take the burden off your shoulders while you focus on recovery.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation Benefits in West Mifflin

If you’ve been injured at work in West Mifflin, it can be overwhelming to figure out what steps to take next. One of the most important things to understand is how workers’ compensation benefits can help you during this challenging time. These benefits are designed to protect workers who suffer from injuries or illnesses related to their job, ensuring they receive financial support while recovering.

Medical Benefits

The cornerstone of any workers’ compensation claim is medical coverage. If you’re injured on the job, your employer’s insurance will typically cover the costs of necessary medical treatment related to your injury. This can include doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and even travel expenses to and from medical appointments.

These benefits are provided without you needing to prove that anyone was at fault for the injury. As long as the injury happened while you were performing job-related tasks, you are entitled to these medical benefits. It’s important to note that in some cases, the insurance provider may want to approve the treatment plan or request you visit certain doctors. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the medical treatment you need.

Wage Loss Benefits

If you are unable to work due to your injury, workers’ compensation can provide wage loss benefits. These benefits are designed to replace a portion of your lost income while you are recovering. The amount you receive is typically a percentage of your average weekly wage. In Pennsylvania, the weekly compensation amount is generally two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state-imposed maximum.

There are two primary types of wage loss benefits:

1. Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you are unable to work at all due to your injury, you may be entitled to temporary total disability benefits. These benefits are meant to help you while you are recovering and unable to return to your job. Once you are able to return to work, either full-time or part-time, your benefits will end.

2. Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If your injury allows you to work but only in a limited capacity, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability benefits. These benefits cover the difference between what you were earning before your injury and what you can now earn due to limitations caused by the injury.

The key to making sure you get the correct amount of benefits is ensuring your medical records clearly reflect the extent of your injury and how it impacts your ability to work. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can assist in collecting and presenting evidence that supports your claim for wage loss benefits.

Permanent Disability Benefits

If your injury results in a permanent disability that affects your ability to perform certain tasks or prevents you from working altogether, you may qualify for permanent disability benefits. These benefits are available in two forms:

1. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If your injury causes permanent damage, but you can still work in some capacity, you may qualify for partial disability benefits. These benefits compensate for the permanent loss of function, such as losing the use of a limb or suffering from ongoing pain. The amount you receive is based on the severity of the disability and its impact on your ability to perform your job.

2. Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If your injury is so severe that it prevents you from ever working again, you may be entitled to permanent total disability benefits. This typically applies to cases where the injury is catastrophic, such as losing both legs or suffering a brain injury. PTD benefits provide ongoing financial support for the duration of the disability.

It’s important to know that permanent disability claims can be complicated. Insurance companies often try to minimize the compensation offered. A workers’ compensation lawyer can ensure that you are receiving the proper benefits and help you fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.

Death Benefits

If a worker dies as a result of a workplace injury or illness, their surviving family members may be entitled to death benefits under workers’ compensation. These benefits can help cover funeral costs and provide ongoing financial support for the dependents of the deceased.

In Pennsylvania, death benefits are typically paid to the surviving spouse, children, or other dependents of the deceased. The amount of compensation depends on the number of dependents and the wages of the deceased worker. If you’ve lost a loved one due to a workplace injury, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and ensure that your family receives the compensation to which you are entitled.

Vocational Rehabilitation

If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, vocational rehabilitation services may be available to help you find new employment. These services can include career counseling, job training, resume assistance, and even help with job placement. Vocational rehabilitation is designed to help injured workers get back into the workforce, even if they can no longer perform the same tasks they did before the injury.

It’s important to note that vocational rehabilitation benefits are typically available when it’s clear that you cannot return to your former position due to your injury. In some cases, these services can be critical in helping injured workers regain financial independence and return to work in a new role.

The Importance of Working with a Lawyer

Workers’ compensation claims can be complex, and having a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer on your side can make all the difference. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, ensure that all paperwork is filed on time, and advocate on your behalf if your claim is denied or challenged.

Insurance companies are focused on minimizing costs, and they may try to reduce the amount of compensation you receive. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help protect your interests, gather the necessary evidence to support your claim, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Serious About Your Claim? So Is Your Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

When a workplace injury disrupts your life, having the right legal team can make all the difference. Porta Clark & Ward is proud to stand by West Mifflin workers, providing compassionate legal support and tireless advocacy. As your workers’ compensation lawyer, we’re here to help you navigate every step of your claim with confidence and clarity. Don’t let the system overwhelm you—call us today at (412) 912-2381 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and securing your future.