Workers’ Compensation for Agricultural Workers in Pennsylvania
Agricultural work ranks among the most dangerous and physically demanding jobs. Every day, workers face risks related to equipment, animals, chemicals, and repetitive tasks. When these risks cause injury, workers’ compensation benefits may be available—but the system can be difficult to navigate.
At Stern & Cohen, The Workers’ Compensation Lawyers, we help injured agricultural workers across Pennsylvania secure the benefits they deserve.
Are Agricultural Workers Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in Pennsylvania?
Most agricultural workers in Pennsylvania are eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, there are two key exemptions to be aware of:
- Workers who earn less than $1,200 annually and work fewer than 30 days for the same employer are not covered.
- Spouses and children under 18 who work for a family member (usually a farm owner) are also excluded—unless there’s a written employment contract filed with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor.
Because of these exceptions, some workers assume they aren’t eligible. In many cases, though, they still qualify. Speaking with a workers’ compensation lawyer can help confirm your rights.
What Benefits Are Available to Injured Agricultural Workers?
Qualified workers injured on the job may be entitled to two types of benefits:
- Medical benefits – Coverage for necessary medical treatment related to the injury, including doctor visits, surgeries, prescriptions, hospital stays, and rehabilitation.
- Wage loss benefits – If your injury prevents you from working, you may receive partial wage replacement. This is generally calculated at two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to state limits.
Common Hazards for Agricultural Workers
Agricultural workers face a number of unique job-related risks, including:
- Heavy Machinery: Equipment like tractors and harvesters helps workers perform daily tasks. But when mishandled or malfunctioning, these machines often cause serious injuries.
- Animal-Related Injuries: Large livestock, such as cows or horses, can kick, bite, or trample workers. Daily contact increases the risk of harm.
- Chemical Exposure: Agricultural work often involves pesticides, fertilizers, and other hazardous chemicals. Prolonged exposure may lead to illness or long-term health problems.
- Repetitive Stress Injuries: Harvesting, planting, and lifting often require repeated movements. Over time, these tasks can cause chronic pain and joint or muscle damage.
- Crush Injuries: Falling tools, equipment, or livestock can crush limbs or cause internal injuries.
- Cuts and Abrasions: Sharp tools and equipment increase the chance of cuts and lacerations. Without proper care, these injuries can become infected.
Challenges Agricultural Workers Face in the Workers’ Compensation System
- Underreporting of injuries – Many agricultural workers worry about retaliation or job loss if they report an injury. This can delay claims and jeopardize access to benefits.
- Limited access to legal resources – Workers in rural areas or seasonal positions may not know how to access legal help or may believe they are not entitled to benefits.
- Complex seasonal employment – For seasonal workers, calculating wages and determining benefit eligibility can be more complicated, often requiring legal assistance to navigate correctly.
Get Help Navigating the System
If you’re an agricultural worker who has suffered a workplace injury in Pennsylvania, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you:
- Determine if you’re eligible for benefits
- File your claim accurately and on time
- Navigate any employer or insurance pushback
- Secure full medical and wage loss benefits
The team at Stern & Cohen is here to guide you through every step of the process and ensure your rights are protected.
If you’ve experienced a work-related injury in the agricultural industry, contact us today. The consultation is always free.