Do I have a workplace injury claim even if I’m already receiving workers’ compensation benefits?

Yes. Workers’ compensation is only one part of a potential workplace injury case. While it provides medical benefits and partial wage replacement, it does not compensate you for pain and suffering or other personal injury damages. If someone other than your employer—such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, property owner, or negligent driver—contributed to your injury, you may also have a third-party personal injury claim. A Pittsburgh workplace injury lawyer can review the facts of your accident to determine whether additional compensation is available beyond workers’ comp benefits.

What should I do if my employer disputes how the accident happened or claims I was at fault?

Workplace injuries in Pennsylvania are handled through a no-fault system, which means you can typically receive workers’ compensation benefits regardless of who caused the accident. Disputes often arise when employers question whether the injury happened at work or whether the medical condition is job-related. If your employer is contesting your injury or attempting to blame you, a Workplace Accident Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA can gather supporting evidence—including witness statements, safety records, and medical documentation—to prove that your injury qualifies for benefits. Fault rarely prevents an injured employee from receiving the support they need.

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering after a workplace injury in Pennsylvania?

Not through workers’ compensation alone. The workers’ compensation system covers medical costs and a percentage of lost wages but does not provide compensation for pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, or other non-economic damages. However, if your injury resulted from the negligence of a third party—such as a contractor, driver, property owner, or equipment manufacturer—you may be able to file a separate personal injury claim. This is often where significant additional compensation becomes available. A Pittsburgh workplace injury lawyer can evaluate whether a third-party claim exists and pursue all forms of recovery you’re entitled to.

How long do I have to take legal action after a workplace injury in Pittsburgh?

Pennsylvania has strict deadlines that apply to workplace injury claims. You should report your injury to your employer immediately, and no later than 120 days after the accident. Workers’ compensation claims must typically be filed within three years of the injury. Third-party personal injury claims related to workplace accidents generally have a two-year statute of limitations. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve. If you’re unsure whether you still have time to act, consult an attorney right away. A Workplace Accident Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA can confirm your timeframe and file all necessary documents on time.

What if my workplace injury developed gradually instead of happening in one sudden accident?

Many legitimate workplace injuries occur over time due to repetitive motions, overexertion, cumulative strain, or prolonged exposure to hazardous conditions. These are known as occupational injuries or occupational illnesses, and they are fully covered under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law. The challenge is often proving the connection between your condition and your job duties. Insurers may argue that your symptoms come from aging, prior injuries, or lifestyle factors. An experienced Pittsburgh workplace injury lawyer can work with your medical providers to document the gradual onset, gather evidence tying the injury to your workplace, and build a compelling case for benefits.

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Secure the Compensation You Deserve With the Help of a Dedicated Workplace Accident Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA

A workplace injury can disrupt every part of your life. What starts as a normal shift can suddenly lead to emergency treatment, time away from work, and months of physical and financial uncertainty. While Pennsylvania law provides important protections for injured employees, navigating the system—and securing the full benefits and compensation you’re entitled to—can be challenging without legal support.

As a Pittsburgh workplace injury lawyer, AlpernSchubert, P.C., assists injured workers throughout Western Pennsylvania with claims involving workplace accidents, serious injuries, wrongful death, and third-party liability. Whether your injury stems from a sudden accident or a condition that developed over time, we help you understand your rights, evaluate all available claims, and pursue the financial recovery you need to move forward.

It costs nothing to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable Workplace Accident Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA. Your consultation is free, confidential, and comes with no risk or obligation.

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Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury in Pittsburgh

What you do in the minutes, hours, and days after a workplace injury can significantly impact your health and your legal rights. Taking the right steps early protects your ability to pursue compensation.

1. Notify Your Employer Immediately

Report the injury to your supervisor or manager as soon as possible. Written notice—such as an email or incident report—helps establish the timing of the injury and prevents disputes later.

2. Get Medical Attention Right Away

Your health must come first. Prompt treatment also creates crucial medical documentation. If your employer has a posted list of approved medical providers, you may be required to see one of those doctors for the first 90 days, except in emergencies.

3. Document the Accident and Injury

If you’re able, photograph the area where the injury occurred, any equipment involved, and your visible injuries. Collect witness names and contact information.

4. Track All Records and Correspondence

Keep detailed files of medical visits, treatment recommendations, missed work, pay records, and all letters or emails from your employer or insurer.

5. Be Cautious When Speaking With Insurance Representatives

Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. Use caution when answering questions, signing forms, or discussing your condition.

6. Consult an Attorney Promptly

Legal representation becomes especially important when injuries are serious, when circumstances are unclear, or when an insurer disputes how your injury occurred. Consulting a Pittsburgh workplace injury lawyer early helps preserve your rights and strengthens your claim.

Even if your injury required emergency care or prevented you from documenting the scene, you may still have a strong claim. The key is to speak with an attorney who can help gather evidence and ensure your case is properly presented.

Understanding Workplace Injury Claims in Pennsylvania

Workplace injuries can involve many overlapping legal issues. Depending on how the injury occurred, you may have one or more types of claims available.

Workers’ Compensation Claims: Most injured employees are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, including medical care and partial wage replacement. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you can often qualify for benefits regardless of how the accident occurred.
Third-Party Personal Injury Claims: If someone outside of your employer contributed to your injury—such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, property owner, or driver—you may have a personal injury claim in addition to your workers’ comp claim. These claims allow recovery for damages not available through workers’ compensation, including pain and suffering.
Wrongful Death and Survival Actions: If a loved one suffered a fatal work injury, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation through death benefits and civil claims.

A skilled Workplace Accident Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA evaluates all potential avenues for recovery and ensures no opportunity for compensation is overlooked.

Types of Workplace Injury Claims We Handle

Workplace injuries occur in countless ways across industries. Below are the six core categories we frequently see—each of which corresponds to your sub-practice area pages for more detailed guidance.

Back and Neck Injuries

These injuries often result from heavy lifting, repetitive strain, awkward movements, slip-and-fall accidents, or vehicle collisions. Back and neck injuries can require long-term treatment, imaging, therapy, injections, or surgery. Our firm helps injured workers document their conditions thoroughly and fight back against insurers who downplay symptoms.

See our Back and Neck Injuries page for a deeper look at these cases.

Construction Worker Injuries

Construction sites are among the most hazardous work environments. Falls from heights, collapsing structures, electrical injuries, falling objects, heavy equipment accidents, and unsafe worksites all contribute to serious injuries.

Learn more on our Construction Worker Injuries page.

Fatal Work Injuries

Losing a loved one to a workplace accident is devastating. Families may be eligible for workers’ compensation death benefits as well as wrongful death or survival claims. Our attorneys help families understand their rights and pursue financial stability during an incredibly difficult time.

Visit the Fatal Work Injuries page for more information.

Healthcare Worker Injuries

Nurses, aides, technicians, and other healthcare workers face constant risk of injury due to patient handling, long shifts on their feet, exposure to infectious diseases, and workplace violence. We help healthcare professionals obtain benefits and protect their ability to return to work safely.

Learn more on our Healthcare Worker Injuries page.

Industrial & Warehouse Injuries

Manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and warehouses often involve forklifts, conveyor systems, heavy machinery, and repetitive tasks. These environments create significant risks of crush injuries, strains, sprains, exposure-related illnesses, and vehicle accidents.

Additional details are available on our Industrial & Warehouse Injuries page.

Machine Injuries

Equipment malfunctions, missing safety guards, poor maintenance, and inadequate training can lead to catastrophic machine-related injuries, including amputations, crush injuries, and electrical burns. These cases may involve both workers’ compensation and third-party liability claims against equipment manufacturers or contractors.

Visit our Machine Injuries page to learn more.

How a Pittsburgh Workplace Injury Lawyer Helps You

Navigating the aftermath of a serious workplace injury can be overwhelming. Our attorneys provide full-service support designed to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Your attorney will:

File all required documents on time
Communicate directly with your employer’s insurance company
Gather comprehensive medical and occupational evidence
Evaluate and pursue all available injury claims
Represent you in hearings, appeals, and negotiations
Seek the full range of benefits and damages available under Pennsylvania law

From the first phone call to the final resolution of your claim, our goal is to reduce your stress, safeguard your benefits, and position your case for the best possible outcome.

Why Injured Workers Choose AlpernSchubert, P.C.

Injured employees throughout Western Pennsylvania rely on our firm because we offer:

More Than 100 Years of Combined Experience

Our attorneys bring decades of legal insight to every workplace injury claim.

Representation Focused on People, Not Corporations

We stand up for injured individuals and their families—not employers or insurance companies.

Extensive Experience With Insurance Disputes

With unmatched familiarity handling insurance bad faith matters on the plaintiff’s side, we understand the tactics insurers use to delay or deny claims.

Personal Attention and Clear Communication

As a smaller firm, we provide direct attorney involvement and guidance tailored to your situation.

At AlpernSchubert, P.C., we believe in honesty, integrity, and results. That’s the foundation of every case we handle.

Contact a Pittsburgh Workplace Injury Lawyer Today

If your workplace injury has left you struggling with medical bills, lost income, or uncertainty about your future, you don’t have to navigate the system alone. The dedicated attorneys at AlpernSchubert, P.C., are here to help you pursue full and fair compensation.

To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, contact AlpernSchubert, P.C. online or call 412-556-2326 today.

Pittsburgh Workplace Injury Lawyer