Teaching is a physically demanding job regardless of the subject you teach or the age of your students. If you sustain a job-related injury while teaching, you could miss weeks or months of work, straining your finances and putting you in a difficult spot.
If you sustained a work-related injury as a teacher or education professional in Pennsylvania, trust Calhoon & Kaminsky, P.C. to guard your rights and help you secure the benefits you need. Our firm focuses exclusively on helping injured workers with workers’ comp cases, giving us in-depth insights and experience to use for your benefit. We understand the financial burdens you face, which is why we don’t charge any fees unless we win your case. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation about your workers’ compensation claim.
Common Injuries and Accidents Teachers Can Experience at Work
Teachers and education professionals in Pennsylvania can suffer many kinds of injuries and illnesses, such as:
- Slip-and-Fall Accidents – Schools have busy hallways, crowded classrooms, and stairwells that can pose hazards to teachers or education professionals. Similarly, spilled drinks, wet floors, or icy sidewalks can cause people to slip and fall. These accidents can lead to sprains, fractures, or even concussions. Long-term effects of slip-and-fall accidents may include chronic pain, mobility issues, or lingering joint stiffness.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries – Teachers often perform repetitive tasks like writing on boards, grading papers, or typing for long periods. Over time, these repetitive movements can cause conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis. These injuries can result in pain, numbness, and reduced hand or wrist function, making daily tasks difficult.
- Stress Illnesses – Teaching is a high-pressure job with long hours, large class sizes, and heavy workloads. Chronic stress can lead to anxiety, depression, or burnout. Long-term effects of stress injuries or stress-related injuries can include trouble sleeping, high blood pressure, or an increased risk of heart disease.
- Back Injuries – Lifting heavy stacks of books, moving classroom furniture, or standing for long periods can strain a teacher’s back. Likewise, sudden movements or awkward posture can also cause muscle sprains or herniated discs. Back injuries can lead to ongoing pain, limited mobility, or the need for surgery in severe cases.
- Illness Caused by Toxic Exposure – Some school buildings have mold, asbestos, or poor air quality that can cause respiratory problems. Similarly, exposure to cleaning chemicals, dust, or other irritants can trigger asthma, allergies, or chronic lung conditions. Long-term effects of toxic exposure can include permanent lung damage or increased vulnerability to infections.
- Violence-Related Injuries – Teachers may face physical harm from students, parents, or intruders. These injuries can range from bruises and sprains to severe trauma like broken bones or concussions. Long-term effects may include chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or emotional distress. If you’re a teacher injured by a student, your compensation can include coverage of your medical expenses and other losses.
- Subject-Related Injuries – Teachers who teach certain subjects can develop injuries or illnesses specific to their field. For example, science teachers may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, while gym teachers risk injuries from physical activities. Similarly, art instructors may develop respiratory issues from paint fumes or dust particles from various media. These injuries can cause long-term health problems, requiring medical treatment or job modifications.
How the Workers’ Comp Attorneys at Calhoon & Kaminsky, P.C. Can Help
At Calhoon & Kaminsky, P.C., we understand the challenges injured teachers and education professionals face. If you were hurt at work or have developed a job-related illness, we can guide you through the workers’ compensation system to help you get the medical care and wage benefits you need. We can handle denied claims, delays, and disputes with insurance companies, so you don’t have to fight alone. Our team can gather your medical records, consult experts, and build a strong case for full compensation. Whether you’re dealing with a slip-and-fall, repetitive stress injury, or workplace violence, we’re ready to protect your rights and secure your rightful benefits.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Teachers Entitled To?
Two of the most common questions we receive from teachers and education professionals are, “Do teachers get workers’ comp?” and “What is the compensation from school workers’ comp?” The answer to the first question is yes. Public school teachers, teachers in private schools, school administrators, and other education professionals in Pennsylvania usually qualify for workers’ comp benefits for workplace injuries.
The answer to the second question is a bit more complicated. Depending on the severity of your injuries and other factors, your workers’ comp benefits could include:
- Medical Coverage – Workers’ compensation covers the cost of necessary medical treatment for work-related injuries and illnesses. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and medical equipment like braces or wheelchairs.
- Wage Loss Benefits – If an injury prevents you from working, you may receive a portion of your lost wages. Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits apply if you cannot work at all, while temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits cover lost income if you can work in a reduced capacity.
- Specific Loss Benefits – If you suffer a permanent injury, such as losing a hand, foot, eye, or another body part, you may receive compensation based on Pennsylvania’s specific loss schedule. These benefits also apply to permanent disfigurement of the head, face, or neck.
- Scarring and Disfigurement Benefits – If a work injury leaves you with significant scarring or disfigurement on the head, face, or neck, you may qualify for compensation.
- Vocational Rehabilitation – If your injury or illness prevents you from returning to your previous job, workers’ comp may cover job training or career counseling to help you find a new role or career.
What Should I Do if I Was Injured While Teaching?
If you sustain a work-related injury while teaching, seek medical attention immediately. The next step is to notify your employer in writing about your injury. Pennsylvania law requires you to report your injury to your employer within 21 days to preserve your right to benefits. Once you’ve done so, contact a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney. They can explain your legal options, help you submit a claim, and represent you in any disputes with your employer.
Contact Our PA Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
Our Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyers understand what teachers and other education professionals go through as they educate young people. If you sustained a work-related injury or illness, we’re ready to simplify the legal process and help you claim your rightful benefits. Call Calhoon & Kaminsky, P.C. now or reach out online for a free consultation.
