If you were injured at work, you should report the accident or occupational injury to your employer as soon as possible. Waiting too long can create disputes over when the accident happened, how it happened, and whether the injury is really work-related. In many cases, the report should be made immediately, and it is always better to create a written record rather than relying only on a verbal notice. A written report can help preserve evidence and reduce confusion later in the claim process.
You should also seek medical treatment promptly. In an emergency, immediate transport to a hospital or emergency room may be necessary. In non-emergency situations, you should still be evaluated as soon as possible so that your doctor can document the injury, connect it to your work activity where appropriate, and begin the medical reporting needed for the workers compensation process. Delays in treatment can be used to challenge the seriousness of the injury or the connection between your job duties and your condition.
Our attorneys help injured workers cut through the confusion of the claims process. We assist with filing, documentation, deadlines, and communication issues that can slow down or damage a claim. We also advise workers on broader compensation issues, including whether a third-party personal injury claim may exist in addition to the workers compensation case. Depending on the facts, injured workers may be entitled to benefits relating to medical treatment, lost wages, disability, and other losses, and in qualifying third-party claims, compensation may also include pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, scarring, loss of enjoyment of life, and wrongful death damages when a fatal workplace incident occurs.
Both documented and undocumented workers may have rights under New York workers compensation law. We help injured workers in Brooklyn, Staten Island, and across New York City understand their rights and protect their claims. We handle recoverable injury matters on a contingency fee basis where applicable, so you pay no legal fee unless we recover compensation for you.
What should I do first after a workplace injury in New York?
You should report the injury to your employer as soon as possible and get medical treatment right away so there is clear documentation of both the accident and your injuries.
Why is it important to report a work injury in writing?
A written report creates a paper trail. It can help prevent misunderstandings, disputes, and denials based on claims that the injury was never properly reported.
What evidence matters when filing a workers compensation claim?
Important evidence may include the accident report, medical records, physician reports, witness statements, job records, incident documentation, and any photographs or other proof showing how the injury happened.
Can undocumented workers file workers compensation claims in New York?
Yes. Undocumented workers may still have rights under New York workers compensation law and should not assume they are excluded from benefits simply because of immigration status.
Can I have both a workers compensation claim and a third-party injury claim?
Possibly, yes. If someone other than your employer contributed to the accident, such as a contractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer, a third-party personal injury claim may also be available.
What benefits may be available through a workers compensation case?
Depending on the case, benefits may include medical treatment coverage, lost wage benefits, disability-related benefits, and other relief available under New York workers compensation law.
How much does it cost to hire your firm for a workers compensation matter?
We evaluate workers compensation and related injury matters to help injured workers understand their rights, and where recoverable claims are pursued, you do not pay legal fees unless compensation is recovered.