Pro Sports: Wage loss, medical expenses, pension plans, lump sum settlements
Wage loss benefits differ by state and may include a minimum or maximum number of weeks where benefits are paid. Wage loss benefits involve:
- Whether the professional sports player established a disability
- Whether his disability is work related
- Whether his claim for wage loss is barred or accepted by the state
- Whether his wage loss claim is barred because he’s a seasonal worker
- What his average weekly wage was
- And who is dependent on his earnings
A disability is a physical limitation that affects a worker’s ability to earn maximum wages at available work suitable to his qualifications and training. Is the disability work related or is it from a pre-existing condition.
Medical Expenses
In Pennsylvania and New Jersey medical treatment for work-related injuries are covered. In Pennsylvania the employee has the right to select his treating physician with some limitations for the first 90 days. In New Jersey the employer has some control over the access to treatment.
Injuries that are not related to a work injury are not covered. Generally, what is in dispute in Pennsylvania is whether the injury causes a wage loss and whether the condition is related to a work injury. In New Jersey, it is the extent of injury. There is no cap in either state, and long-term care for physical therapy is covered. Chronic conditions that are caused by a work injury would be covered.
Pension Plans
You should know that many Pro Sports offer pension plans. You should contact your union to determine what sort of benefits are available.
Lump Sum Settlements
In New Jersey there is a lump sum paid for the past-due wage loss and for loss of function based on medical evaluation. In Pennsylvania, lump-sum settlements are available for medical and wage loss.
Settlements in both states must be approved by the worker compensation judge. In NJ the amount of the lump-sum is based on the ratings received from medical evaluations. In PA the lump-sum is base on exposure for past and future wage loss and/or exposure for future medical expenses. Settling medical is possible in NJ as well in cases where liability is questionable.
What’s the best option for you? Contact a pro sports injury lawyer to find out what is available for
New York Jets workers compensation
New York Giants workers compensation
New Jersey Devils workers compensation
Philadelphia Eagles workers compensation
Philadelphia Soul League workers comp
NFL workers comp
Reading Royal workers comp
Philadelphia Phantoms workers comp
Hershey Bears workers comp
Trenton Devils workers compensation
Arena Football League workers comp
