In Pennsylvania, as is the case anywhere in the United States, having to take time off work to recover from an injury can be extremely inconvenient. You may have to go without wages while you are healing and you might even need to cover hefty medical bills. Unfortunately, everyone has to take time off at some point. However, if this is due to an accident that occurred at work, you may be entitled to compensation.
A successful claim can allow you to recoup some of the costs of your treatment, as well as a portion of the wages you would have received if you were able to work. It is also worth remembering that even if you do not initially realize that you have been hurt, if you later discover that you have developed any long-term injuries or illnesses as a result of your accident, you may still be able to pursue compensation.
However, as this article on employee rights explains, there are cases where rather than claiming workers' compensation, you may choose to file a lawsuit against your employer, suing them for damages. This is not generally the case where an accident has occurred, but more frequently when you have been caused deliberate harm. Similarly, if this harm was caused by someone else in your workplace, you may be able to file a suit against them.
Of course, every case is different and in certain situations you may be able to claim workers' compensation and also consider an intentional tort. An attorney can advise you about the best course of action to take and may be able to assist you with the option you choose. With this guidance, you can pursue the remuneration you deserve and focus on recovering from your injuries.
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