Next Steps When You Are Injured At Work
If you are hurt while at work or in the course of performing the duties your job requires, you are likely eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, the process to file a claim in New York can be complex and intimidating. Here is what you need to know about submitting a claim after you are injured.
Report It Immediately
Nearly all businesses are required to maintain workers’ compensation insurance. When a worker is injured, the employer files a claim through its insurance company. Therefore, notifying your employer as soon as the injury occurs is extremely crucial. Claims must be filed within a specific amount of time following the accident, so failing to report your injury may mean you will not be able to collect benefits.
Some types of injuries, such as ones caused by repetitive movements, may not be apparent immediately. As soon as you experience any kind of pain or think you may have been injured, report it to your supervisor and file a report.
Seek Medical Attention And Gather Evidence
See a doctor as soon as you can. Your employer or its insurance company may have a preferred medical provider so be sure to ask. Even if you think your injury is minor, it is important that you receive treatment and have documentation to back up your claim for benefits.
Many companies have forms to fill out when incidents occur. If your company does not have one, you should write up a statement stating the facts surrounding your accident. In addition, you may want to take pictures of the scene of the accident and get statements from anyone who witnessed the accident.
Consult With An Attorney
At Ellis Law, P.C., in Albany, New York, we have many years of experience dealing with workers’ compensation claims. Benefits can help cover things like your lost wages and medical bills. Having a lawyer on your side can help ensure that you get the maximum amount of compensation to which you are entitled.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim generally precludes you from suing your employer for your injury. However, if a third-party was negligent or there was a defective product that contributed to your accident, additional compensation may be available. We will examine all of the details of your accident and pursue all possible avenues to make sure you have what you need to recover.
Deadlines May Apply
We have offices in Poughkeepsie and throughout New York, so scheduling a free initial consultation is easy. Contact us by calling 1-800-LAW-7777 or by sending us a message through our website.
