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

Despite Teething Problems, Workers’ Compensation Automation and Integration System is Functional

by Karl Voigt Despite Teething Problems, Workers’ Compensation Automation and Integration System is Functional The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation's  Workers’ Compensation Automation and Integration System (WCAIS) is now available online. Injured workers can access some portions of their claim online from their home computer. If your case is in litigation, you may be able to … Continue reading Despite Teething Problems, Workers’ Compensation Automation and Integration System is Functional

New PA Supreme Court Case May Change the Landscape of Vocational Litigation

by Karl Voigt A November 21, 2013 opinion from the Pennsylvania Supreme Court may have just changed the game in job availability litigation. Since 1996, workers' compensation insurers have been able to try to reduce an injured worker's wage loss benefits by alleging that they can return to hypothetical jobs. In an opinion published in … Continue reading New PA Supreme Court Case May Change the Landscape of Vocational Litigation