Workers’ compensation pays out to cover part of your income and your medical bills if you suffer a workplace injury or become ill because of your job. New York state workers’ compensation laws require the vast majority of employers to provide this type of benefits to their employees. They are available from the first day you start the job.
The workers’ compensation lawyers at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C., work to ensure injured workers get the compensation they deserve. We know how to navigate the complex claims process, file the proper forms, and choose the right doctor to provide the care you need. We can also help you fight a denial of your claim, if necessary. Call our office today at 631-600-0000 to schedule a free case review with a workers’ compensation lawyer in Sayville, Long Island.
How Does Workers’ Compensation Work in New York?
New York state law requires employers in most industries to provide workers’ compensation for their employees and to pay the entire cost of this benefit. If a covered worker suffers an injury or illness at work, they should qualify for coverage of their medical bills as well as weekly cash benefits.
Your first priority after a workplace accident should be getting the medical care you need. Depending on the circumstances, you may tell your supervisor before you see the doctor. In other cases, you can notify them about your injury later. You have 30 days to notify your employer in writing, explaining your injuries and how they occurred.
You will also need to file a claim with the local Board District Office, using form C-3. This form is key to getting your workers’ compensation benefits, so you will probably want to file it as soon as possible. However, you have two years from the date of your injury or the discovery of your injury to file this form.
Once you receive approval for your claim, you will begin drawing cash benefits each week. The amount of money you receive depends on your average wage, but they usually cover about two-thirds of your usual income.
Can I Choose Which Doctor I See to Treat My Workplace Injury?
The New York State Workers’ Compensation Board approves physicians to treat patients receiving workers’ compensation. As long as you choose a doctor who is on the approved list, you can see any doctor you prefer. It is always a good idea to ask your doctor if they accept workers’ compensation cases before allowing them to treat your injuries.
The only time you do not get to choose your own doctor is if your employer has a managed care plan they use when employees suffer workplace injuries. If this occurs, you will need to see their doctor or care provider for the first 30 days of treatment. After this period, you can choose to see your own doctor, if you prefer.
If you do not have a doctor or are not sure who can provide the best care for the injuries or illness you suffered, our legal team has the resources to connect you with a doctor or specialist.
Why Do I Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for My Claim?
Many workers’ compensation claims go relatively smoothly and employees receive the benefits they deserve while they miss work due to a minor injury. They can return to work fairly quickly and there is never any need to contact an attorney.
Occasionally, though, workers have questions about their benefits. They do not believe they are receiving the full amount they should be, or there are other problems with their benefits. Perhaps a third party played a part in causing or worsening their injuries.
If you have any questions about your workers’ compensation claim or need help navigating the claims process, we can help. We can also examine your case to see if you qualify for additional compensation for your injuries.
We offer free case evaluations and handle all workers’ compensation cases on a contingency basis. We understand you are struggling with your income right now, so we will not accept any payment until we recover the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve. If you have questions or need help with your workplace accident case, you have nothing to lose by giving us a call today.
What If They Deny My Claim?
Workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits no matter who caused your accident and injuries. However, sometimes your employer or the insurance carrier will deny that your injuries occurred at work. They may claim you suffered injuries elsewhere and refuse to pay you the benefits you deserve. In other cases, they may agree that your injuries occurred on the job, but claim you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol or otherwise acting in an extremely unreasonable manner.
If your employer or their workers’ compensation insurance company disputes your claim, you will not begin receiving benefits until we can appeal their decision and a judge determines if you qualify for benefits. Your best option if you find yourself in this situation is to enlist the help of one of our workers’ compensation lawyers as soon as possible.
We can collect evidence to support your case and request a hearing to appeal your denial. While you could represent yourself during this process, we understand the nuanced workers’ compensation rules and can use this to our advantage. You are more likely to get the benefits you deserve with us on your side. We may also be able to help you qualify for disability benefits while you wait for the judge to rule on your claim.
How Can I Reach a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Sayville, Long Island?
The workers’ compensation attorneys at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C., can help you get the most out of your claim. With us on your side, you do not have to worry about representing yourself in front of the insurance company, their legal team, or the administrative law judge from the New York Workers’ Compensation Board. We will go to bat for you and secure the full amount of benefits you deserve. Call us today at 631-600-0000 to schedule your complimentary consultation.
