When Your Employer Disputes Your Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Claim: What Happens Next

Getting injured on the job in Harrisburg is stressful enough without having your employer or its insurance company question whether you deserve workers’ compensation benefits. Disputes are not unusual, and it doesn’t mean you have lost your right to benefits.

Pennsylvania has a process for resolving workers’ compensation disputes, and you can challenge a denial. Our experienced Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer explains why claims are commonly disputed and what happens next.

Why Do Employers Dispute Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Claims?

Pennsylvania workers’ compensation generally covers employees who suffer injuries in the course of employment, regardless of fault. However, an employer or its insurance carrier may still question whether a particular injury qualifies for benefits.

Not reporting the injury promptly is a common reason for denied workers’ comp in Harrisburg. Under PA workers’ compensation guidelines, you generally have up to 120 days, but waiting gives insurers more reason to challenge what happened and delays when benefits begin. Other common reasons for claims disputes include:

• The employer questions whether the injury happened at work.
• The insurer disputes the connection between your job and your medical condition.
• The employer believes the injury resulted from a preexisting condition.
• Medical records do not clearly support the claimed work injury.
• The employer disputes the extent of your disability or your need for ongoing benefits.

These disputes can involve both the initial injury and what happens afterward. For example, an insurance company may accept that you were injured at work but later argue that you have recovered enough to return to your job.

What Happens After a Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Disputed?

Just because your employer or their insurer denies your claim, you may still be entitled to benefits. Filing a Claim Petition with Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation Office of Adjudication is the first step:

• Explain the injuries you suffered in your petition and the benefits you believe you are entitled to.
• Gather evidence, including medical records, employment records, and accident reports, to help establish your claim.
• Attend hearings, where a PA workers’ compensation judge may hear testimony from you, your employer, and other witnesses.
• Present medical testimony of your condition and its connection to your job.
• Wait for a written decision while the judge reviews the evidence.

You generally have three years from the date of injury to file your claim petition, but waiting can make your case more difficult. If the judge continues to deny your benefits, you can appeal their decision through the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board.

Denied Benefits? Contact Our Experienced Harrisburg Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today

When on-the-job injuries happen in Harrisburg, workers’ compensation benefits help cover your medical care, lost income, and other costs. If your claim has been denied or your employer disputes your injury, contact us immediately to protect your rights.

At Ira H. Weinstock P.C., our Harrisburg workers’ compensation lawyer has the knowledge, skill, and experience to help injured workers navigate disputed claims. We investigate the circumstances, gather supporting evidence, and advocate for the full benefits you deserve. Request a consultation today.

Sources:

pa.gov/agencies/dli/programs-services/workers-compensation

pa.gov/agencies/dli/programs-services/workers-compensation/workers-compensation-office-of-adjudication-wcoa

pa.gov/agencies/dli/programs-services/workers-compensation/workers-comp-appeal-board