On November 9, 2006, the most recent amendment to the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, known as Act 147 of 2006, was signed into law. Several of the provisions of Act 147 were designed to quicken the litigation process in PA workers’ comp. One of those provisions created what is known…
An injured worker in Pennsylvania is generally entitled to be compensated for his or her lost wages (called “indemnity” benefits), and have medical expenses related to the work injury paid. When an injured worker loses the use of certain parts of the body, payment can also be obtained (this is…
Even when an injured worker receives a decision from the Workers’ Compensation Judge (WCJ) in Pennsylvania, the case is not over. Either side may appeal the decision to the next level, the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board (WCAB). Such an appeal must be filed within 20 days of the decision of…
Recently, Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was in the news for its efforts to crack down on undocumented, illegal aliens. We also are hearing the Presidential candidates speak about their views on how to handle these people. It might make one wonder how an undocumented, illegal worker is treated under the Pennsylvania Workers’…
Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law is like no other State. I mean no disrespect by that statement; truly, PA workers comp is unique, like in every other State. Unlike Federal laws which may be of concern to an injured worker, such as Social Security Disability (SSD) or the Americans with Disabilities…
There are many things in life that are not fair. At least one of those things rears its ugly head in Pennsylvania workers’ comp. Unless an employee has a contract, or is a member of a union, there is very little protection for the employee from being fired from his…