Despite the laws protecting workers following an injury on the job, there are dishonest employers that have forced the resignation of their employees. Forced resignation is treated the same as termination and leaves already injured employees with a wrongful termination claim on their hands.
Employers try to force out injured workers for a few reasons. One of the biggest reasons is to avoid having to provide the correct accommodations, while others may be trying to avoid a Workers’ Compensation claim. Oftentimes, they try to make the worker decide to leave on their own with hostile work environments, but some even ask the employee to resign outright.
Constructive discharge is a legal concept created by the National Relations Board in the 1930s to stop employers from discouraging employees from joining labor unions by making them resign from their positions. Today, the same efforts are used to force injured employees to resign, even if they are not part of a union.
This is done by creating intolerable working conditions or a hostile work environment, or by telling the employee they must resign.
Intolerable working conditions go beyond an unsupportive manager or being unhappy at work. Instead, someone claiming such working conditions must prove they were forced to leave by these conditions, and that they came because of their injury. To achieve this, it must be proven that the conditions were objectively intolerable, as opposed to working conditions the employee didn’t like.
In this case, objectively intolerable simply means the average worker in the same job and field would have found the conditions bad enough to feel they had to quit. This is the most difficult part of a legal case when it comes to forced resignations. Some actions an employee can prove include harassment, demotions, or humiliation, along with severely cut hours.
Typically, there must be tangible action to build a case. There also needs to be proof that there was efficient time and opportunity for the working conditions to be fixed before resignation. It is important for employees who feel they are under poor working conditions to keep track of the conditions, such as having copies of reports or making notes during meetings regarding the conditions.
If you feel you were forced to resign, or feel you can’t continue working under the present conditions, contact our Pennsylvania Workers Compensation lawyers at Vanasse Law today. We will work to protect your rights and hold your employer accountable for their actions.
People tend to romanticize the idea of working with animals. We hold veterinarians and animal shelter workers in high regard and visualize pastoral images of lambs, calves, and chickens when we think of farm work. The reality of the situation is far different. A report conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that in the five-year period between 1992 and 1997, animals were either partially or entirely responsible for 375 fatal on-the-job injuries, accounting for one percent of all of the fatalities during that period. During the same period of time, there were 75,000 animal-related injuries that were not fatal. These types of injuries result in significant harm, with employees having to seek medical attention and take time from work in order to recuperate. If a worker is injured on the job and their employer is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, then those injuries would be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If the injury was the result of negligence on the part of a third party, then the employee may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against those responsible. The Lancaster law firm of Vanasse Law has extensive experience in helping injured workers get the justice they deserve. We can help you get the compensation you deserve.
When livestock is present as part of the work environment, their actions are generally included in the owner’s legal responsibilities. Though farm animals such as sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and cows may be considered domesticated, they are still capable of causing serious injuries to those who are around them, including those who are working with them. Injuries and accidents can include:
Those who own the animals are responsible for taking actions to protect their employees from their animals. These actions may include providing proper training, providing appropriate fencing and equipment to provide a barrier between employees and the animals, establishing safety protocols for what to do when animals escape or get out of control, and making sure that first aid supplies are available to provide immediate care to anybody who has been injured.
Under workers’ compensation rules, an employer cannot be held personally responsible for injuries sustained by their employee for animal attacks on the job, but the owners of the animal can be, and so can third parties who may have contributed, or to whom the animals belonged. Employees do, however, have the right to file for workers’ compensation benefits to provide compensation for medical care and lost wages. For information about how to access these benefits or for representation, contact the Pennsylvania law firm of Vanasse Law.
Having a job and going to work each day are closely tied in to an individual’s sense of self-worth. That’s why people work so hard to get the training and education that they need for their desired occupation and why they strive to do well, accomplishing goals and making their employers happy. When a dedicated employee is hurt on the job and unable to perform their work responsibilities, it does more than impact the company’s productivity – it also can lead to depression and a fear that somebody else will take their place. Slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of employee injuries, and they can lead to long-term disabilities. Good maintenance practices can prevent slip and fall accidents at work, keeping employees happy and healthy. The attorneys at the Lancaster law firm of Vanasse Law are proud to provide employers and employees alike some tips on how to minimize accidents from happening.
Most slip and fall accidents are a result of unstable floors, or flooring where the employee loses traction or trips over something. Examples include:
Employers that want to minimize employee slip and fall accidents at work should pay attention to basic housekeeping, planning ahead for weather-related hazards and assigning responsibility for clean-up. This means that employees may be given the task of cleaning up after the weather, themselves, or others in order to prevent an injury from happening. Responsible employers will implement a program that automatically ensures that walking surfaces are frequently inspected for water, ice, debris or other hazards. The program should include the installation of safety-minded devices such as “wet floor” signs, moisture-absorbent mats with beveled edges, and anti-skid adhesive tape.
Additional steps can include careful inspection of all work areas for hazards such as poor lighting, stairwells that are poorly lit or have uneven stairs or loose or absent handrails. Safety training that teaches employees to close cabinet drawers and to report broken fixtures and other potential risk factors immediately can also reduce the number of slip and fall injuries. Finally, where appropriate, the mandating of appropriate footwear can cut down on slip and fall injuries dramatically.
When an employee is hurt in a slip and fall accident at work, everybody suffers. The worker suffers pain and the emotional trauma of being away from the job that provides them with their sense of self-worth and the employer loses the skills and talent that the employee provides. It is always best to avoid injuries rather than to regret them later. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident at work, contact the workers’ compensation attorneys at Vanasse Law today.
Most employees are covered by workers’ compensation, a no-fault insurance that provides benefits that cover medical expenses and lost wages in exchange for the injured worker not filing a lawsuit against their employer. Though this benefit was originally designed to make the process easier on both the worker and the employee, over the years it has become a situation that can be fraught with animosity as employers or their insurers deny coverage and argue against the extent of the damages that have been suffered. If you have been injured on the job and you are eligible for workers’ compensation, there are certain steps you need to follow, deadlines you need to meet, and mistakes you need to avoid to strengthen your chances of getting the benefits you deserve. The attorneys at the Lancaster law firm of Vanasse Law are dedicated legal advocates who are committed to making sure you get the benefits that you deserve. Contact us as soon as possible after a workplace injury takes place in order to preserve your rights.
There are a number of mistakes that can lead to an injured worker not getting the benefits that they deserve for their workplace injury. These include:
Though there is no requirement that you use an attorney when you file a workers’ compensation claim, having a qualified and knowledgeable lawyer acting on your behalf is one of the best things you can do to ensure that you get the benefits that you deserve. A lawyer will make sure that you are in compliance with all of the workers’ compensation laws’ requirements, that all of your documents are in order, and that you avoid the mistakes that can jeopardize your ability to get your compensation. The lawyers at Vanasse Law are here and ready to help.
It is sometimes difficult to envision an injury occurring in an office environment. After all, when you picture an office you think of cubicles, office chairs, and copier machines — all things that rarely represent a risk. Still, there are a surprisingly high number of workers’ compensation claims submitted for injuries that occur in these settings. People can slip and fall, they can be victims of office furniture tumbling over or drawers carelessly left open. Chairs can break, individuals can hurt themselves trying to lift heavy objects, and sitting at a desk and typing on a computer for hours at a time can lead to repetitive stress injury. If you have suffered an injury or illness that occurred at the office, then you are entitled to workers’ compensation, a benefit provided specifically for those who have been hurt at work. Workers’ compensation is supposed to be a no-fault process that allows the injured employee to receive compensation without assigning blame. Unfortunately, it can still be a difficult process, as employers and their insurance companies often deny claims. If you have been injured on the job and need assistance getting the benefits you deserve, Vanasse Law can help.
There are several common injuries that occur at the office. Some are a result of the nature of office work, as employees that spend most of their time inside and seated can often suffer from back and neck pains, pain in the hands and wrists, and even vision strain from staring at a computer for hours on end. Others are simply the same injuries that can happen in any setting. Here are the office injuries that we most frequently see and represent:
No matter what the cause of your injury, if you have been hurt or sickened at the office then you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, as well as any time that you need to take away from the office for recovery. If you need assistance in preparing a claim, gathering documentation or appealing a denial, call the attorneys at Vanasse Law today. We know how to fight for your rights.
When you think of on-the-job injuries, most people don’t think of being hurt in a car accident. But the truth is that motor vehicle crashes are one of the most common causes of deaths and injuries in the workforce. Employees who have been injured in car accidents while on the job have a legal right to workers’ compensation benefits, but these claims are often denied by employers or their insurance companies. It is important that you understand your rights and that you have experienced, dedicated legal representation. The Lancaster workers’ compensation attorneys from Vanasse Law, LLC are here to help.
One of the most essential questions that come up when an employee files a claim for workers’ compensation benefits following a car accident is whether they were actually “on the job” at the time that the accident occurs. Though accidents that occur while on your daily commute generally do not fall into this category, there are a number of circumstances that do, including:
These are clear-cut examples of on-the-job driving. Others include employees who do not have a fixed office and are required to drive for work or employees who are being paid by their employer for travel time. Even an accident that occurs on the way to or from the job may be viewed as a work-related accident if an employee has been asked to do something for their employer while on the way. In all of these cases, an accident is likely to qualify as having happened on the job and entitled the worker to workers’ compensation benefits.
Motor vehicle accidents that occur while on the job often result in both workers’ compensation claims and personal injury claims. As an employee who is covered by workers’ compensation insurance, you have the right to file a claim for your medical expenses, as well as compensation for wages that you lose as a result of your injuries. Workers’ compensation may provide you with either temporary or permanent disability compensation depending upon the extent of your injury, and may also provide rehabilitation expenses. You may also be able to file a personal injury claim for damages that you have suffered against any party that was involved in your accident and who displayed negligence.
At the Lancaster County law firm of Vanasse Law, LLC, we understand that your employer has a responsibility to you whenever you are driving on their behalf, or injured in a motor vehicle accident while on the job. We can help determine what benefits you are entitled to and represent you in a workers’ compensation claim, as well as investigating whether or not negligence played a role in your accident and pursuing justice on that front. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can help.
Pennsylvania is one of America’s most prominent farming states. The state boasts over 63,000 farms and ranks fourth in the country for dairy production, apple production, and grape production, and first for mushrooms. Though farming may evoke an image of a bucolic and peaceful setting, the truth is that it is a very dangerous profession, and agricultural employees are at high risk for work-related injuries. Despite the dangers inherent in the industry, workers’ compensation laws throughout the country do not necessarily apply to those who work on farms, and for those who suffer farm work injuries in Pennsylvania, those protections might be in place, but only under limited circumstances. Understanding worker’s compensation for Lancaster, PA farm workers is complex, but the attorneys at Vanasse Law are dedicated to ensuring that those who are injured on the job get the justice they deserve. If you’ve suffered a farm work injury, call us today and let us tell you how we can help.
Though Pennsylvania does allow farmworkers to collect workers’ compensation when they have suffered a farm work injury, that is only provided on a limited basis. According to the law, Pennsylvania farm employers are only required to provide workers’ compensation if they pay one agricultural worker wages of $1,200 or more, or furnish employment to one employee in agricultural labor for thirty or more days in a calendar year. Additionally, the state courts have ruled against the rights of undocumented workers to receive replacement wages when they have suffered a farm work injury, though they do provide for medical benefits. Trying to understand whether your employer is required to provide these benefits can be a complex process, and that is why you need the help of an experienced Lancaster, PA workers’ compensation law firm.
Farmworkers are at risk for a number of injuries. Accidents can occur when working with heavy machinery or you may be injured while working with power tools. Farm animals can be unpredictable and can expose you to airborne illnesses, chemicals and pesticides can lead to a variety of conditions and toxicities, and you can develop repetitive stress injuries or suffer injuries such as broken bones or back strains. In all of these cases, the medical bills will quickly become overwhelming and you may be required to miss work or be completely disabled.
Though the exclusions and limitations established by the state with regards to providing workers’ compensation to farmworkers may seem to work against your ability to get the compensation you need following your work injury, the lack of workers’ compensation does not preclude your ability to file a third-party personal injury claim that can provide you with similar benefits or compensation. The attorneys at the workers’ compensation law firm of Vanasse Law have extensive experience in determining the best way to approach each farm work injury situation in order to maximize your ability to get the compensation that you need. Call us today to see how we can help.
Learn more about Workers’ Compensation and Vanasse Law HERE.
When people think about workers’ compensation and the injuries that require applying for these benefits, they generally imagine work setting such as factory floors and construction sites. The truth is that serious work-related injuries can happen in every environment, including offices where white collar workers are employed. Whether an employee is a professional in a supervisory role or a clerical staff member, it is quite common for white collar worker injuries to occur, and as a result they may be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. If you are an employee who has suffered a white collar worker injury and you need legal advice or representation, contact the Lancaster, PA law firm of Vanasse Law to learn more about your rights and how we can help.
There are a number of ways that an employee can be injured in an office setting. From something as simple as a slip and fall at the office to the development of a repetitive stress injury such as thoracic outlet syndrome or carpal tunnel syndrome, any accidental injury, sickness, or death that is a result of something that happens in the scope of your employment may qualify you for workers’ compensation. In the state of Pennsylvania, having your claim approved means that you can receive medical benefits without limitation, as well as replacement of lost wages where appropriate.
The most common office injuries that result in workers’ compensation claims are a result of slip and fall accidents. They may be the result of unsafe conditions, unattended spills, exposed cords, loose rugs, or cluttered areas. The presence of inclement weather often contributes to the hazards that are present: slippery stairways, icy parking lots, and water accumulation of floors are frequently the cause of injury. Additionally, many injuries are a result of poor workstation ergonomics that can lead to repetitive stress injuries, poor posture, and strains. Other problems that befall white-collar workers include indoor air-quality problems, the negative impact of too much noise, electrical hazards, insufficient lighting or lighting that is too harsh, and acts of violence in the workplace.
If you work in an office environment and have suffered a workplace injury, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the proper procedures for reporting and responding to those injuries so that you can avail yourself of the workers’ compensation benefits to which you are entitled. Though many employees are hesitant about filing a claim, it is important to remember that workers’ compensation is a no-fault system – by seeking benefits you are not blaming your employer for your injury, and you are not holding them liable.
The Lancaster, PA workers’ compensation law firm of Vanasse Law is familiar with all of the processes and procedures of filing a workers’ compensation claim and will guide you through them in order to make sure that you are able to avail yourself of the benefits you need. Call us today to set up a convenient time for a consultation.
Learn more about Workers’ Compensation HERE.
When you’ve been hurt on the job, your first thought is probably not to turn to an attorney for help. Your immediate concern is to get your injury treated and make sure that you’re getting the proper medical attention. In the state of Pennsylvania, there are highly specific rules and regulations regarding the correct process to follow in order to apply for workers’ compensation benefits, and if you fail to follow them, you run the risk of losing those benefits. If you have suffered a workplace injury, contact the on-the-job injury lawyers from the Lancaster law firm of Vanasse Law. Our experience and knowledge will make all the difference in your ability to get the compensation that you deserve for your injury.
The state of Pennsylvania’s laws makes it mandatory for an employer to carry worker’s compensation insurance for their employees. The coverage may be provided by a private issuance carrier, a state fund, or the employer may choose to supply insurance on their own. Whichever type of insurance the employer elects means that an employee whose claim is accepted is entitled to full medical benefits with no financial limits. However, in order to qualify, upon being injured the employee is required to select the initial physician that sees them from a list of approved doctors provided by the workplace, unless no list has been provided. The process requires that you report your injury to your employer within 21 days, and they then have just ten days to submit a First Report of Injury to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. If a death has occurred the employer is required to report the incident to the agency within 48 hours.
Once your claim has been submitted, your employers’ insurance company is required to either provide you with a Notice of Temporary Compensation Payable Form so that you can get benefits or an Agreement of Compensation Form. The paperwork on these forms needs to be filled out and sent to the agency, along with a Statement of Wages Form and a number of other essential documents. This is the best-case scenario. The insurance company may deny your claim for benefits, in which case they must submit the appropriate paperwork within 21 days of the initial report having been filed. If you receive word that your claim has been denied, it is suggested that you seek assistance from an on-the-job injury lawyer to help you with the next steps.
The on the job injury lawyers at Vanasse Law are dedicated to fighting for the rights of workers who have been sickened or hurt on the job. Whether you have been exposed to a substance that made you ill, have been involved in a workplace injury, or suffer from a repetitive stress injury, you are entitled to compensation. Call our office today to set up an appointment with an on-the-job injury lawyer who truly cares.
Learn more from our On-The-Job Injury Lawyer HERE.
When people plan their careers, they focus on the job that they will be doing, what they will accomplish, and how much money they will make. Few outside of the most dangerous professions gives thought to the possibility of whether they will be injured on the job. Yet workplace accidents happen every day, and the injuries sustained in these incidents can range from minor bumps and bruises to traumatic injuries, and even death. If you have been injured in a workplace accident, then you have certain rights, including may include compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, or long term disability. Contact Vanasse Law and let our Lancaster Workers’ Comp Attorney explain how we can help.
There are many different types of workplace accidents. These are the most common:
In all of these examples and many more, the employer has a duty of care to their employee, either to provide them with appropriate training or protective gear. The Lancaster workers’ compensation attorneys at Vanasse Law can help you file a workers’ compensation claim to get the benefits that you need, as well as review the circumstances of your workplace accident to determine whether others may be held responsible for your injuries. Call us today to set up a convenient appointment.
Learn more about the Types of Workplace Accidents that you may encounter HERE.
30 East Roseville Road, Suite C
Lancaster, PA 17601
Phone: 717-397-1010
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Fax: 717-397-2644
Vanasse Law LLC is conveniently located just north of center city Lancaster just off Route 30. We are in Sterling Center just off Lititz Pike/Route 501. Our office has plenty of free parking and is handicapped accessible.
Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Vanasse Law LLC serves injured workers throughout Lancaster County and surrounding communities.
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