Pregnancy and Workers’ Compensation

Pregnant workers are covered by a range of workplace protections, including federal and state-specific laws. When employees are pregnant, they are protected from discrimination and harassment under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These two laws protect those who are pregnant, have been pregnant, or may become pregnant in workplaces with 15 or more employees.

It is important to know that a pregnant worker does not leave their rights at the door when they enter the workplace. This also relates to the intersection of pregnancy and workers’ compensation coverage. Pregnancy does not qualify as a workers’ compensation claim alone, but there are cases where a pregnant employee will need to file a compensation claim. For employees, knowing one’s rights and what laws apply is critical when injured at work.

Workplace Protections

Employees in the United States are covered by employment protections that apply to a variety of situations addressing health, safety, disability, discrimination, and harassment. The PDA and ADA are key laws for pregnant employees that protect them from harassment based on their pregnancy. The PDA provides that pregnant workers cannot be fired, demoted, or required to use leave simply due to their pregnancy. It is important that pregnant employees understand these protections in the workplace.

Pregnancy and workers’ compensation intersect when an employee who is injured on the job is also pregnant. Pregnancy is not by itself a condition that is covered by workers’ compensation, but it can be significant if the pregnant worker is injured or becomes ill due to their work duties. Workers’ compensation is designed to provide coverage for medical treatment and lost wages when an employee is injured, with some exceptions. Thus, if any worker suffers an illness or work injury, they are entitled to file a claim for benefits.

With a pregnant employee, ensuring the condition does not adversely affect the pregnancy is vital. The medical care recommended can result in the need for workplace accommodations under the ADA, such as modified work schedules, additional breaks, the ability to work from home, or lighter duty activities. The injury and treatment can also potentially result in additional time on leave or the need to begin maternity leave coverage sooner than anticipated. Because there are multiple laws and employee benefits involved in an injury to a pregnant worker, it is always strongly advised to have the guidance of a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer on your side.

Downingtown Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC Represent Pregnant Workers Injured on the Job

If you were injured at work during your pregnancy, the Downingtown workers’ compensation lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC can help. We have a long tradition of professional and compassionate legal counsel toward our clients. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 610-594-1600. Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Downingtown, West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchland Township, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.

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Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC

Sweeney and Ryan

Our deeply rooted legal practice extends over four decades, with a steadfast commitment to advocating for employees’ rights. Our extensive experience in Employment Law encompasses a wide range of issues, including wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, harassment, and more.

Our legacy, built on the values of equity, justice, and individual rights, ensures that we approach every case with the utmost professionalism and integrity. We combine the attentiveness of a small firm with the capabilities of a comprehensive trial and litigation firm, delivering skilled representation and sound legal advice. For more information or to discuss your case, complete the form below or call 610-594-1600.

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