What Happens to My Workers’ Comp Claim if I Lose My Job?

If you are a worker in Pennsylvania with a serious job-related injury or illness, you’ve likely considered this question: “What happens to my workers’ comp benefits if I lose my job?” The good news is, employers cannot retaliate against an employee for filing a workers’ comp claim. In other words, you cannot be fired for simply filing a workers’ comp claim.

However, there may be other circumstances under which you may lose your workers’ comp benefits, and the rules are complicated. If you are receiving workers’ comp benefits and lose your job for any reason, contact a Lancaster job injury attorney at Vanasse Law LLC. We’ll discuss your claim with you for free.

Why Would I Want to Quit My Job Just Because I Was Injured?

There are a variety of reasons why people quit their jobs after an injury, some of which include:

• You Feel Like Your Injury was Your Own Fault. Workers’ comp in Pennsylvania is a no-fault system. This means it does not matter if you or your employer are responsible for your work-related injury.
• You Feel Like Your Job is Too Dangerous. It’s hard to argue against this reason when you’ve recently been injured on the job. However, remember that, from a common-sense standpoint, your job is no more dangerous than it was before you were injured. Furthermore, your employer may consider you for another position with less risk.
• I Feel Like I’m Not Completely Capable of Returning. As a general rule, when you can return to work is generally determined by your doctors. You may be able to return to a different, less-demanding role or be assigned to light-duty work.
• I Had a Pre-Existing Condition. Typically, workers’ comp benefits are only for injuries and illnesses related to job activities. However, if you were already suffering from a pre-existing condition that is worsened because of job activities, you may be entitled to workers’ comp benefits.

Remember: accidents are just accidents; nothing more, nothing less. The workers’ comp laws don’t consider who was at fault. Generally, if you suffer a job-related injury or illness, you are entitled to your benefits. For help with your workers’ comp claim, contact the Lancaster job injury attorneys at Vanasse Law LLC. 

What Happens to My Workers’ Comp Benefits If I Lose My Job?

Your workers’ compensation benefits should not cease simply because you have been laid off or terminated from your employment. Put another way, a workers’ comp insurer should continue paying wage loss and medical benefits even though the employee no longer works for the employer.

If you have suffered a work-related injury, when you return to work is generally determined by your doctors.  Most likely, a doctor will release an injured worker to return to work with some restrictions regarding what they can do or cannot do.  Providing your doctors with specific information about your job duties will allow them to maintain a good idea of your job’s physical requirements.

Contact a Lancaster Job Injury Lawyer at Vanasse Law LLC for More Information

Generally speaking, you shouldn’t have to lose your workers’ comp benefits just because you lose your job. If you have suffered a work-related injury or illness, contact a Lancaster job injury attorney Vanasse Law LLC. Workers’ comp claim is what we do. Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys will help you explore your legal options, which may include third-party claims, and help you with your claims.

Let us help. Contact us online for a same-day response and a free case evaluation.