Legal Question in Workers Comp in Pennsylvania

Now what to do...

Hi,

I was injured twice. Once hit by a 40 pound box from 14 feet high in a warehouse, the second while setting up a ''printer'' in another account. The insurance company has paid every expense, including a very expensive spinal fusion. That was last year. Now conditions are once again getting worse, Yesterday the WC Insurance compnay got a note from my doctor, who called humnan resources, who called my boss.... who call me and told me I was off work until a doctor says I can return. All WC pay is intact.

SO... It looks like what is coming to me being forced out of my job. Which, by the way, is the easiest I have ever had and pays above average. I could work there 25 more years and make great money, but WC said that I must ''rest'', and in the mean time, pays squat. They pay 2/3, but that's a loss of hundreds I just wasted years learning this new career.

Is there such a thing as a ''settlement'' if they make me give up my fream job?

Fusion is Level 2, movement is listed as ''severely restricted'', pain is a constant ''5 to 8'' on the typically used 1 through 10 scale.

Any advice appreciated...

Thanks!


Asked on 9/05/04, 12:17 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Richard Teitell Richard K. Teitell, Esquire, P.C.

Re: Now what to do...

I'm sorry you were injured, & it appears you may not be able to return to your job. Yes, there are settlements in WC claims. In most cases the ins co wants to pay you and have no further obligation to pay any more wage loss or medical payments. In your case, since you may need substantial additional medical treatment, you should not agree to any settlement which permits the ins co to stop medical bill payments. There are many factors which go into deciding whether or not to enter into a lump sum settlement, for example your age, education, nature of injury, and ability to find another job. You need to consult with an experienced worker's comp lawyer. My office handles these types of cases. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss this issue.

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Answered on 9/05/04, 10:00 am


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