Under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law, you may be entitled to medical and income benefits if you suffer a herniated disc injury on the job. The experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Calhoon & Kaminsky P.C. can help you pursue your claim to maximize your herniated disc workers’ comp settlement.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the nucleus—a soft, jellylike substance—of one of the discs between your vertebrae pushes through a tear in the tougher exterior of the disc. Although herniated discs typically occur in the lower back, they can happen in any part of the spinal cord. Depending on the location, it can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in your arm or leg.
Can You Obtain Workers’ Compensation for a Herniated Disc?
Yes, injured workers can obtain workers’ comp for a herniated disc. However, you must prove that the herniation occurred while you were carrying out your duties for your employer or was caused by your work. Establishing that your spinal column injury happened on the job is easier if it is related to an acute medical event, such as a fall. It may be harder to prove if the herniated disc injury arises from repetitive movements like bending and twisting. It may be even more difficult to establish a link between your job duties and a herniated disc if you have a similar pre-existing injury.
How To Claim Workers Comp Settlement for Herniated Disc
You must meet specific deadlines under Pennsylvania law to claim workers’ compensation for a herniated disc injury. Keep these deadlines in mind to ensure you do not inadvertently waive your right to compensation:
- 21 days – You must notify your employer of your injury within 21 days of its occurrence. No compensation is due until you provide this notice unless your employer is aware of your injury.
- 120 days – At the latest, you must provide notice of the injury to your employer within 120 days of the injury. Benefits are not payable if you do not provide notice by that deadline.
- Three years – You must file your claim petition for workers’ comp within three years of the date of the injury if your employer or their insurance company denies your request for workers’ comp benefits.
Because of the complexities of workers’ comp claims and litigation, having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney working for you is crucial. Your attorney will handle all aspects of your claim, including complying with these deadlines and collecting the necessary evidence to support your claim, such as medical records and a doctor’s testimony. By contacting an attorney shortly after you suffer the injury, you can rest assured that your claim is handled while you focus on recovering from your workplace injury with the necessary pain medication and medical treatment.
Call Our Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorneys for Help
At Calhoon & Kaminsky P.C., we understand how difficult it is when work-related injury affects your ability to work. Our workers’ comp attorneys will work hard to get all the financial and medical benefits you’re entitled to from workers’ comp. Contact us today for a free case review to discuss your herniated disc workers’ comp claim.
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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.
