The workers’ compensation system is a vital safety net for injured employees. It provides medical care, income, and benefits when you can’t work due to injuries. The system is complex and varies by state. It’s easy to miss key steps or get lost in the process – or worse, your employer may be trying to cut corners or deny you the benefits you deserve.
If you have been hurt at work, don’t wait to get the help you need. A New York City workplace injury lawyer can provide answers, walk you through the process, and deal with your employer or the insurance company for you.
Injuries can occur in many places and at any time on the job. Getting hurt at work can be devastating, especially when it causes serious, disabling injuries. You may need extensive medical care, have to stay home Work injury lawyer from work, and your bills will pile up. Workers’ compensation can help you with these costs, but it does not cover everything and often is not enough to make ends meet. You can file a claim for additional financial support by proving negligence or strict liability in a lawsuit against a third party who caused your accident.
Most states require your employer to carry workers’ comp insurance for all employees. The law defines who qualifies, the type of injuries that are covered, and the maximum compensation you can receive. While some injuries seem obvious, others may be more complicated to prove. For example, a herniated disc that causes neck pain might develop over days or weeks and not show up on an initial exam. A skilled workplace injury lawyer can ensure you have a clear record of your injury and the correct diagnosis.
Some injuries are permanent, requiring long-term treatment and a significant loss of earning power. Unless you know how to calculate your losses, the insurance company’s settlement offer is likely to be significantly less than what you are entitled to recover. An experienced workplace injury attorney can accurately calculate the full amount of your damages and fight to secure it for you.
It’s possible that you already have a pre-existing condition that could be triggered by your new injury, or that your current doctor might not adequately treat it. This is a good reason to seek the advice of a workers’ compensation lawyer who can guide you through this tricky area of the law and prevent errors that would otherwise invalidate your claim.
It’s also possible that your accident occurred outside of the scope of your employment — for instance, when you were driving for business purposes or participating in a health, fitness, or recreational activity (such as a physical examination, a workout, or even a flu shot) that happened at the place of your employment. In these situations, you can sometimes sue outside of the workers’ comp system for your additional damages. An experienced workplace injury lawyer can explain your options and determine if you have grounds to file a third-party claim for your additional damages.