Burned at work

[bikerbunny]

I live in pa, i was burned at work, had a pilot light explode in my face and knock me back. my boss was more concerned with paper work than my injuries. She never did see me before my husband took me to the ER. boss told me she would be right down but never showed called and told me to meet her at the nusres station, never showed up ther. i ended up waiting for over 40 mins before my husband got to take me to ER. I have 1st and 2nd degree burns on my face neck, left ear and left forearm and hand. Thank god i was not killed or blinded. I am going to have minor scars and it will be a year before the dicoration fades and i will be left with light scars. What about the emotional scars i have. I am terrified to even go into the kitchen or be near and gas appliances. Any advice on what i should do. thanks

[Timothy Belt]

First, make sure that your employer files an accident report. The insurance carrier will have to accept or reject your claim within 21 days of notice. If your claim is rejected or not accepted or rejected within 21 days, you will need to file a Claim Petition and possibly a Petition for Penalties.

In PA you are entitled to wage loss and medical benefits. You are also entitled to separate disfigurement benefits for permanent scarring to your face, neck, and head if such scaring is not a normal risk of your occupation. Disfigurement benefits are not normally volunteered by the insurance company, so you may want to put a reminder on your calendar for about 6 months from now when your scaring is permanent to follow up on this claim.

If you suffer psychological injury as a result of a physical injury, this may also be compensable. Make sure your medical records reflect the psychological component, and ask for a psychological referral.

If you have any additional specific questions, feel free to send me a direct message. My legal practice has been confined primarily to PA WC for many years, and I like to think that I can answer your questions. Good luck.

[RNvic]

Bikerbunny- Welcome to the forum, come often and ask questions or share. Sorry to hear about your burns, I know they have to hurt. Prayer and angels coming your way.

[hurt at work]

welcome and i have had alot of bad burns in my life.i worked in a steel mill for 11 years.make sure it keep clean and dry other than the med they put on it.the debreading of dead skin and scrubbing hurts like hell.when the skin starts healing over get some a&d ointment and put on the entire burn this will keep you from scaring i dont have really any scars only a couple of dark spots.hope you heal well and good luck.

[Still in Limbo]

Welcome Bunny!! I am from Pa. also, and You just got the Best Info. You could Possibly get from Timothy Belt, He is a Lawyer that Specializes in w/c, and is Gracious enough to give Us Advice on His Own Time! Follow what He tells You, and You can Never go Wrong!! I am Sorry to Hear of Your Injury and Accident, and I Hope You Heal with minimal Scarring! Best of Luck, and Be Well!!

[bikerbunny]

Healing is going well, but emotionally not well. I am fearing going back to work. I have been a cook for a long time and now i might have to give it up. I believe Everything happens for a reason im just not sure why this did? I guess time will tell Thanks to all of you for the best wishes.

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

Note; Please remember you must get the (psychological) part of your injury documented. You should be requesting a refferal for that treatment also.

[bikerbunny]

Bad Boy Bad Boy Wrote:Note; Please remember you must get the (psychological) part of your injury documented. You should be requesting a refferal for that treatment also.

I plan on discussing that tomorrow with the doctor. thanks

[Lilly]

Good Luck bikerbunny.
So you don't forget (like i do) write down your questions you want to ask the doctor, and take the list with you to discuss each one. I don't know why....but when i go into the doctor's, i go brain dead, and think of all the stuff i SHOULD HAVE ASKED on the trip home!
I hope you heal well, and aren't in pain 24/7. Prayers for you. Lilly

[Alec-Eldifrawi]

Hope you heal fast and with no problems, good luck on your job.