Permanent scarring and disfigurement can cause physical discomfort and a financial strain in a time of increased stress. A worker, however, may be able to alleviate some of this anxiety. The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act allows an injured worker to collect specific loss benefits for permanent scars and disfigurement. A “specific loss” award is available to workers who permanently lose their eyesight or hearing, or the use of a thumb, finger, hand, arm, leg, foot, or toe. This type of award is also available to a worker who sustains a permanent disfigurement to the head, face, or neck.
Most scarring and disfigurement caused by work-related injuries results from burns, cuts, and surgical scarring. A worker suffering from disfigurement is entitled to specific loss benefits for scarring or disfigurement even if the following situations apply:
- The person is currently working
- The disfigurement did not force the worker to take time off
- The worker does not suffer from a disability
- The worker is receiving other workers’ compensation benefits
A worker is entitled to specific -loss benefits that are equivalent to a percentage of the worker’s average weekly wage. A worker can receive up to 275 weeks of benefits.
If you have questions about what type of workers’ compensation benefits you may be entitled to, call a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer at Calhoon and Kaminsky P.C., at 717-695-4722 or 877-291-WORK (9675).
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For more than 20 years, our attorneys have been helping injured workers navigate the complex Pennsylvania workers’ compensation system. We empower workers with the information and the representation they need to make the best decisions for themselves and their families’ future.
