Utility workers perform essential jobs that keep communities running. Whether working on electrical lines, gas systems, water infrastructure, telecommunications equipment, or public utility services, these workers face dangerous conditions every day. Utility employees often work at heights, around heavy equipment, near traffic, and in challenging weather conditions, creating a significant risk of workplace injury.

At Stern & Cohen, we represent injured utility workers throughout Pennsylvania. If you were injured while performing utility, maintenance, line work, or infrastructure-related duties, our Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to help.

Common Causes of Utility Worker Injuries

Utility workers regularly perform physically demanding and hazardous work that can lead to serious workplace accidents.

Common causes of utility worker injuries include:

• Falls from utility poles, ladders, and elevated work areas
• Electrocution and electrical accidents
• Heavy lifting and overexertion injuries
• Utility vehicle and motor vehicle accidents
• Equipment and machinery accidents
• Trench and excavation accidents
• Struck-by accidents involving tools, equipment, or vehicles
• Repetitive lifting, bending, and climbing
• Exposure to extreme weather conditions
• Slip and fall accidents

Whether working on power lines, water systems, gas lines, or telecommunications infrastructure, utility workers face injury risks throughout the workday.

Common Utility Worker Injuries

Utility work often involves dangerous conditions that can result in both traumatic injuries and repetitive stress conditions.

Common utility worker injuries include:

• Back injuries
• Neck injuries
• Shoulder injuries
• Knee injuries
• Wrist and hand injuries
• Herniated discs
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Slip and fall injuries
• Fractures and broken bones
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Burns and electrical injuries
• Head injuries and concussions
• Crush injuries

Many utility workers require surgery, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and extended time away from work following a serious injury.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Utility Workers

Pennsylvania workers’ compensation benefits may be available if you were injured while performing utility work or related job duties.

Workers’ compensation benefits may cover:

• Medical treatment
• Surgery and hospital bills
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Prescription medications
• Wage-loss benefits
• Specific loss benefits for permanent injuries
• Workers’ compensation settlements

Whether your injury occurred while climbing utility poles, operating equipment, performing repairs, or responding to service calls, you may be entitled to benefits.

Electrical and Fall-Related Utility Worker Injuries

Two of the most serious risks utility workers face are falls and electrical accidents. Working at elevated heights and around energized equipment can result in severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery.

These accidents may cause:

• Serious burn injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Fractures
• Permanent disability

Workers injured in these types of accidents may be entitled to significant workers’ compensation benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can utility workers receive workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Most utility workers are covered by Pennsylvania workers’ compensation and may qualify for benefits after a work-related injury or occupational accident.

Are electrical injuries covered by workers’ compensation?

Yes. Electrocution injuries, electrical burns, and other electrical accidents that occur while performing utility work may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.

Can I receive workers’ compensation after falling from a utility pole or ladder?

Yes. Falls from utility poles, ladders, bucket trucks, and elevated work areas are common utility worker accidents and may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.

Contact a Pennsylvania Utility Worker Injury Lawyer

A workplace injury can leave utility workers facing medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about the future. If you were injured while working for an electric company, gas company, water utility, telecommunications provider, or public works department, the attorneys at Stern & Cohen are ready to help.

Contact Stern & Cohen today for a free consultation to discuss your workers’ compensation claim and learn about your legal options.