Can you collect workmen's comp and unemployment at the same time

Asked in Reading, PA , on Oct 16, 2015

I was hurt on the job, was seen by the doctor and was sent back to work with restrictions. The company wouldn’t give me light duty work and I was not allowed to go back to work. I have been off work going on three weeks. Was just told that I qualify for Workmens comp. Since I was available for work and company refused to make work available could I collect unemployment for those weeks or until I start getting Workmens comp. My unemployment payments are much higher than workmens comp payments too.

Answered on Oct 19, 2015

I agree with the other attorneys who have commented, the insurer usually wants you to receive UC because they receive the money back as a credit. There are many inequities built into how these claims are handled so you should be conscious of injuries that are not described correctly (herniation called a sprain, missing finger called a flesh wound), a WC nurse following you at appointments and panel doctors who do not seem to be treating you. I would recommend that anyone who is hurt at work talk to a WC attorney. There is too much going on in the background not to have the issues addressed. The consult is free and most attorneys in this field are very easy to work with. Good luck.