“What does it mean when the final WC order grants benefits and grants termination?”

by Karl Voigt Karl just answered this Pennsylvania workers’ compensation question on Avvo.com: "What does it mean when the final WC order grants benefits and grants termination? My workers compensation order says I've been granted reinstatement and benefits through the circulation of the order. The order then states the termination petition has been granted for … Continue reading “What does it mean when the final WC order grants benefits and grants termination?”

Can I receive a lump sum settlement from workers’ comp and can I sue anyone else?

by Karl Voigt Karl just answered this Pennsylvania workers’ compensation question on Avvo.com: "I was hurt at work 2 weeks ago, the company doctor put me on light duty and i lost a week of work now im on full duty and my employer says they gave away my position. i have a surgeon and … Continue reading Can I receive a lump sum settlement from workers’ comp and can I sue anyone else?

Should I Get a Lawyer for My Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Karl answered this Pennsylvania workers’ compensation question on Avvo.com: “Should I get a lawyer for my workers compensation claim? I separated my ac joint in my right shoulder in may of 2013. As a result I have a brachial plexus injury to the nerves in my shoulder. I have been out on workers comp for … Continue reading Should I Get a Lawyer for My Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Travel Expenses for WC medical treatment

by Karl Voigt Karl answered this Pennsylvania workers’ compensation question on Avvo.com: "I had surgery performed by an out of state provider. Can my travel and OOP costs be reimbursed by WC carrier?" There is a compelling argument that the carrier should reimburse your costs. Until about 1992, workers' compensation carriers would regularly have to … Continue reading Travel Expenses for WC medical treatment

Governor Approves Minor Changes to PA Workers’ Compensation Act for Maritime Workers

by Karl Voigt Governor Corbett today has signed a new bill, promoted by legislators in Pennsylvania maritime regions, that makes some minor changes to the Workers' Compensation Act. House Bill 2081 changes workers' compensation coverage for any person engaged in maritime employment, such as longshoremen, ship repairmen, shipbuilders, ship-breakers, pleasure boat captains, stevedores, vessel repairers, … Continue reading Governor Approves Minor Changes to PA Workers’ Compensation Act for Maritime Workers

Settling Your Workers’ Compensation Case

by Karl Voigt Many of our clients have expressed an interest in settling their workers’ compensation case for a lump sum. And, statistically, most long-term workers’ compensation cases in Pennsylvania do indeed eventually settle for a lump sum. Sometimes a settlement is warranted. When it is, it's important to know all about the process. Historically, … Continue reading Settling Your Workers’ Compensation Case

What Are My Rights at an Insurance Medical Examination (IME)?

Karl answered this Pennsylvania workers’ compensation question on Avvo.com: "What Are My Rights at an Insurance Medical Examination (IME)?" Sometimes, the insurer gets to choose what doctor examines you. The carrier is allowed to have you examined for an insurance medical examination (IME) twice a year. The IME doctor is hired not to treat you … Continue reading What Are My Rights at an Insurance Medical Examination (IME)?

Can a Nurse Case Manager Talk to My Doctor?

Karl answered this Pennsylvania workers’ compensation question on Avvo.com: "Can a IC's Nurse Case manager talk to the Dr. after my appointment without my permission?" No. As has already been pointed out, one of the first "red flags" that we see in WC cases is the involvement of a nurse case manager. He or she … Continue reading Can a Nurse Case Manager Talk to My Doctor?

Can Someone Tell Me What Does “NCP” Mean in a WC case?

Karl answered this Pennsylvania workers' compensation question on Avvo.com: Can someone tell me what does ncp meaning in wc injury case???? An NCP is a Notice of Compensation Payable. If you have received one, it's good news. Without issuing this document, the carrier is not bound to pay any benefits associated with your work injury. … Continue reading Can Someone Tell Me What Does “NCP” Mean in a WC case?

Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Announces Statewide Average Weekly Wage for 2014

by Karl Voigt The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has announced the statewide average weekly wage for 2014. This directly affects workers who are injured in 2014. Generally, workers’ compensation is paid at 66 2/3% of an injured worker's average weekly wage, up to a maximum as defined by the statewide average weekly wage. Section 105.1 … Continue reading Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Announces Statewide Average Weekly Wage for 2014