Common Workplace Injuries That Lead to Claims in Pennsylvania

Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for Common On-the-Job Injuries

Workplace injuries often occur on the job across Pennsylvania. From construction sites to hospitals, workers face a wide range of hazards that can cause serious injuries. Fortunately, most injured workers in Pennsylvania can receive workers’ compensation benefits, which can help pay for medical expenses, lost income, and more.

Unfortunately, Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation claims can also be very confusing. That’s why it’s critical that injured workers understand how the system works. And part of that has to do with which workplace injuries often result in workers’ compensation claims.

At Vellner Law, PC, we understand how confusing and frustrating it can be when you've been hurt at work. That's why our law firm is here to help you navigate the process and fight for the benefits you deserve. Here's what you should know.

How common are workplace injuries in Pennsylvania?

In 2023, someone sustained a workplace injury in Pennsylvania every 4 minutes and 33 seconds, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That’s 115,200 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses among private industry employers that year in Pennsylvania.

Such figures are higher than the national average. Pennsylvania’s total recordable cases (TRC) incidence rate for 2023 was 2.6 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. The national TRC incident rate for the same year was 2.4 cases, according to the BLS.

Common workplace injuries that result in claims

While workplace injuries can vary widely depending on the industry and specific job duties, certain types of injuries occur more often and result in workers' compensation claims in Pennsylvania:

Sprains and Strains – One of the most common reasons why injured workers file claims involves overexerting muscles or joints. These injuries often stem from repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or awkward movements. They can cause pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and extended time off from work.
Cuts, Lacerations, and Punctures – Sharp tools, equipment, or exposed materials can easily cause deep wounds and cuts. These types of injuries may lead to infections, nerve damage, or long-term complications if not properly treated. Long-term medical issues are also common, especially if injured workers do not receive timely medical care.
Back Injuries – Heavy lifting, twisting, or repetitive bending can put enormous stress on the back. Injuries to the spine or surrounding muscles can be debilitating, limiting a person’s ability to move, work, or even sit comfortably. These injuries are among the most commonly cited in workers’ compensation claims.
Head Injuries – Whether caused by a fall, a flying object, or equipment-related impact, trauma to the head is always serious. Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can interfere with a worker’s ability to concentrate, remember tasks, or manage everyday functions. Injured workers should see a doctor right away since many head injuries can have serious, long-term consequences.
Contusions and Bruises – Blunt trauma is often the result of being struck by or bumping into equipment, machinery, or other objects. While some bruises heal quickly, others can mask more serious conditions such as internal bleeding or bone fractures. This is why injured workers should seek immediate medical attention if they have bruises or contusions on their bodies.
Bone Fractures – A broken bone can happen in an instant at work. Whether it’s a slip and fall, a vehicle-related incident, or being struck by a heavy object, bone fractures often occur on the job. These injuries typically require emergency medical care, which can include surgery, immobilization, and physical therapy. Some injured workers cannot return to work for weeks or sometimes even months.
Burn Injuries – Workplace fires, exposure to hot surfaces, chemicals, or electrical hazards can leave workers with painful burn injuries. Depending on the severity, burns can result in nerve damage, disfigurement, and muscle or tissue damage. Emotional trauma is also common if burns leave permanent visible scars.
Occupational Illnesses – In certain industries, long-term exposure to toxins, fumes, or hazardous conditions can lead to serious health problems often referred to as occupational illnesses. Conditions like respiratory disease, skin disorders, or hearing loss may not appear right away but can have serious, long-term consequences. Fortunately, most workers are often entitled to receive workers' compensation benefits, even if their medical condition develops gradually.

Why hiring a workers' comp lawyer is important

Navigating the workers' compensation system in Pennsylvania can be complex and challenging. And if you make a mistake, you could miss out on receiving workers’ compensation benefits at a critical time in your life. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can level the playing field and provide invaluable assistance in several ways:

Understanding Legal Rights: A knowledgeable attorney can explain your rights under Pennsylvania's workers' compensation system and demand the benefits you deserve for your workplace-related injury or illness.
Filing Accurate Claims: Properly completing and submitting claim forms is crucial. An attorney can help prevent errors that could delay or jeopardize your claim. Your lawyer can also make sure you submit your application on time and don’t miss any important deadlines.
Clarifying Benefits: There’s often a lot of confusion about what types of expenses or income are covered if someone gets hurt at work. Don’t just assume you cannot receive certain types of benefits simply because someone says so. They might have the wrong information. Your lawyer can clarify exactly what benefits you’re entitled to receive based on your workplace injury or illness.
Gathering Evidence: An attorney can assist in collecting medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to support your claim. Such evidence can improve your ability to receive the maximum financial compensation you deserve under Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system.
Negotiating Settlements: If your employer's insurance company offers a settlement, an attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate on your behalf to make sure it's fair and covers all your expenses.
Representing in Hearings: If your claim is denied or disputed, an attorney can represent you in hearings before the Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Office of Adjudication. Having a lawyer by your side during these hearings can often make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your case.

What sets our workers’ comp law firm apart

Experience matters when it comes to hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer to handle your claim. That’s why many people choose attorney Anthony R. Vellner when their future is on the line.

To learn more about how our law firm can help you, contact us today and schedule a free consultation. We have offices conveniently located in Bethlehem and Allentown and represent workplace injury victims throughout Pennsylvania.

“Tony Vellner and his staff were with me throughout my case, and I never felt left in the dark about the case. I have and do recommend Tony to anyone who needs a workers' comp lawyer." – Susan, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐