Slip and fall accidents at work often result in severe injuries, leaving employees with medical bills, lost wages, and long-term physical limitations. In Pennsylvania, workers who suffer a slip and fall on the job have legal options, but navigating the workers’ compensation system and understanding potential third-party liability can be challenging.

This article explores what employees should know about workplace slip and falls in Pennsylvania, from filing a claim to understanding when a lawsuit may be possible.

Common Causes of Workplace Slip and Falls

Slip and fall accidents can happen in any workplace, from construction sites to office buildings. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Wet or slippery floors – Spills, leaks, and recently mopped surfaces can create hazardous conditions if not properly addressed.
• Uneven flooring or loose carpets – Cracked pavement, torn carpeting, or broken tiles can cause an employee to lose balance.
• Poor lighting – Inadequate lighting in stairwells, hallways, or storage areas can make it difficult to see potential hazards.
• Cluttered walkways – Boxes, cords, and other obstacles can increase the likelihood of tripping.
• Weather-related hazards – Ice, snow, and rain tracked into a workplace can create slick surfaces.
• Lack of proper footwear – Employees working in environments requiring slip-resistant shoes may be at greater risk if wearing improper footwear.

While these are common risks, liability for an accident depends on several factors, including whether the employer took reasonable steps to prevent injuries.

Workers’ Compensation for Slip and Falls in PA

Pennsylvania requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers employees who sustain work-related injuries, including those from slip and falls. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning employees do not need to prove their employer was negligent to receive benefits. However, they must meet specific requirements when filing a claim.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Slip and Fall

1. Report the injury immediately – Pennsylvania law requires employees to notify their employer of a workplace injury within 120 days to remain eligible for benefits. However, waiting that long can jeopardize a claim. It’s best to report the accident as soon as possible, ideally in writing.
2. Seek medical treatment – If emergency care is needed, go to the hospital right away. Otherwise, employees should see a doctor approved by their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance for the first 90 days.
3. File a workers’ compensation claim – The employer will provide the paperwork to file a claim with their workers’ compensation insurance. If the claim is approved, benefits may include medical expenses and wage replacement.
4. Follow the doctor’s orders – Adhering to the prescribed treatment plan is necessary to maintain eligibility for benefits.
5. Consult a lawyer if the claim is denied – If the insurer denies benefits, an attorney can help appeal the decision and fight for compensation.

What Benefits Can Injured Employees Receive?

If a workers’ compensation claim is successful, injured employees may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses – Coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, and necessary medical treatments.
• Lost wages – Workers who miss time due to an injury may receive temporary total disability (TTD) benefits, typically amounting to two-thirds of their average weekly wage, subject to state limits.
• Specific loss benefits – If the fall results in the permanent loss of use of a body part (e.g., amputation or vision loss), additional compensation may be available.
• Death benefits – If a slip and fall leads to a fatal injury, surviving dependents may be eligible for compensation.

Can an Employee Sue After a Slip and Fall at Work?

While workers’ compensation prevents most lawsuits against an employer, there are exceptions. Employees may have the right to file a lawsuit if:

A third party caused the accident – If a property owner, contractor, vendor, or another entity (not the employer) contributed to the fall, a personal injury lawsuit may be an option.

The employer engaged in intentional misconduct – If an employer intentionally created a dangerous condition, legal action may be possible beyond workers’ compensation.

Defective equipment was involved – If a fall resulted from a faulty ladder, scaffold, or safety gear, the manufacturer of the defective product could be held responsible.

A personal injury lawsuit allows an injured worker to seek compensation beyond what workers’ compensation covers, including pain and suffering, which is not available through a workers’ comp claim.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident. If the claim is not filed within that period, the worker may lose the right to benefits.

For personal injury lawsuits, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the slip and fall. This applies to cases against third parties, such as property owners or equipment manufacturers.

Preventing Workplace Slip and Falls

Employers can reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents by implementing safety measures, such as:

• Conducting regular workplace inspections to identify hazards.
• Providing slip-resistant flooring and ensuring all flooring is well-maintained.
• Installing adequate lighting in all work areas.
• Training employees on safety protocols and proper use of footwear.
• Using warning signs and barriers around wet floors or hazardous areas.

By prioritizing workplace safety, employers can help prevent accidents and reduce liability.

Conclusion

Slip and fall accidents at work are among the most common causes of workplace injuries in Pennsylvania. Employees injured in these incidents should report the accident immediately, seek medical treatment, and file a workers’ compensation claim to secure benefits. In some cases, they may have grounds for a lawsuit if a third party contributed to the injury.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating Pennsylvania slip-and-fall claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced slip and fall lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.