Bronx Workers' Compensation Lawyer

Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim in New York City

At the Harris Firm, LLC, our team specializes in handling workers' compensation claims for healthcare professionals in the Bronx, Queens, and all boroughs of New York City. With over 20 years of experience, our attorneys are well-versed in New York's workers' compensation system.

We have a deep understanding of how the process works and are familiar with the specific needs of injured healthcare workers. Our firm is dedicated to developing innovative legal strategies and providing personalized attention to each healthcare provider who contracts COVID-19 at work or within the scope of their employment.

In New York, nearly every employee is entitled to workers' compensation benefits. This means that if you have been involved in an on-the-job accident or suffered a work-related injury, illness, or medical condition, you are likely eligible for financial compensation to cover certain expenses and losses through the state's workers' compensation system. However, obtaining these benefits is not always easy, even if you are entitled to them.

Filing a workers' compensation claim can be a confusing, time-consuming, and challenging process, especially when your employer or their insurance provider disputes your claim. In such situations, it is often in your best interest to hire a Bronx workers' compensation attorney. At the Harris Firm, LLC, we specialize in representing injured workers and guiding them through the complexities of the workers' compensation system.

Located in Queens, our team of workers' compensation lawyers represents injured workers from all industries throughout the five boroughs of NYC. Whether you have been injured in a catastrophic workplace accident or diagnosed with a debilitating work-related medical condition, our dedicated team is ready to fight for your rights.

We have earned a reputation for holding insurance companies accountable, and we never settle for less than what your claim is worth. Call us at (718) 487-8669 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

Workers' Compensation Services in The Bronx

Our Bronx workers' compensation services include:

• Filing a workers' compensation claim
• Representation during the claims process
• Negotiating a fair settlement
• Representation in court hearings
• Advice on filing appeals
• Coverage disputes
• Assistance with medical costs
• Help with wage replacement
• Assistance with vocational rehabilitation
• Advice on Social Security Disability benefits

Types of Workers' Comp Claims We Handle

At the Harris Firm, LLC, we possess a deep understanding of the New York workers' compensation system. With decades of experience, our attorneys have a proven track record of success in obtaining fair benefits for our clients.

We represent individuals from various industries who have suffered work-related injuries, illnesses, and medical conditions. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Construction workers
• Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare drivers
• Restaurant workers
• Healthcare workers
• Transportation workers
• Manufacturing workers

Who Is Covered by Workers' Compensation in New York?

Workers' compensation coverage in New York extends to nearly all employees in the state, including both full-time and part-time workers. In fact, it is easier to identify the few exceptions when discussing who is not covered by workers' compensation in New York.

The following types of workers are generally not covered:

• Independent contractors
• Sole proprietors
• Business owners/partnerships without employees
• Most unpaid volunteers

If you fall into any of these categories and your employer does not provide coverage or disputes your eligibility for workers' compensation benefits following a job-related injury or illness, it is crucial to contact the Harris Firm, LLC immediately.

How Long Do I Have to File a Workers' Compensation Claim?

Time Limit for Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim If you have been injured or fallen ill due to your job, you must file a workers' compensation claim within two years of the accident or within two years of becoming aware that your illness is work-related.

What Workers' Compensation Benefits Are Available?

Workers' compensation in New York provides several types of benefits to eligible claimants. These benefits include:

• Medical Benefits: Workers' compensation covers all "reasonable and necessary" medical care, treatment, and related expenses stemming from job-related injuries, illnesses, and medical conditions. This includes surgical and hospital services, dental care, crutches and orthopedic devices, hearing aids, chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, nursing care, medications, and more. In certain cases, workers' compensation also covers mileage reimbursement for travel to and from medical appointments.
• Temporary Disability Benefits: The New York workers' compensation system provides temporary total disability (TTD) and temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits to workers temporarily unable to work due to job-related injuries or medical conditions. The amount paid for temporary disability depends on factors such as the worker's disability rating, average weekly wage, the state's maximum weekly amount, and other relevant factors. During a free consultation, our Bronx workers' compensation lawyers can review your case and provide further guidance.
• Permanent Disability Benefits: If a worker sustains a permanent disability due to a job-related injury or illness, they may be eligible for permanent total disability (PTD) or permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits, depending on their disability rating and other factors. To receive permanent disability benefits, you must reach "maximum medical improvement" (MMI) and receive an impairment rating from your treating physician, ranging from 1 to 100%. Different amounts are awarded based on impairment ratings and the type of disability, such as disfigurement or loss of bodily functions or limbs.
• Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits: Some individuals who suffer work-related injuries or medical conditions preventing them from returning to their previous employment may qualify for vocational rehabilitation benefits. These benefits help offset the costs associated with retraining, education, and reentering the workforce, including course fees, material costs, and other related expenses.
• Death Benefits: In the unfortunate event of a workplace fatality resulting from an accident or job-related injury or illness, the surviving dependents (spouse, child, etc.) may be entitled to workers' compensation death benefits. These benefits are calculated based on various factors, such as the deceased individual's average wages, the number of dependents, and other relevant considerations. Workers' compensation death benefits also cover reasonable funeral and burial expenses, up to a specific limit that varies by county.

While most workers' compensation benefits are provided on an ongoing basis, it is sometimes possible to receive a lump-sum settlement. If you have questions regarding your benefits, we invite you to contact our team at the Harris Firm, LLC. We are ready to discuss your case, advise you on your legal options, and provide assistance at no cost during a free consultation. Our consultations can take place at one of our conveniently located offices or, if needed, at your home or the hospital.

How Do I Appeal a Denied Workers' Compensation Claim?

Employers' insurance companies frequently dispute or deny workers' compensation claims. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to know that you have the right to appeal and continue pursuing the benefits you are rightfully owed.

Appealing a denied workers' compensation claim is a complex process involving multiple steps, extensive paperwork, and hearings before administrative law judges. The Harris Firm, LLC can help you navigate this process and ensure that you are fully prepared for all related proceedings. Our Bronx workers' compensation attorneys are here to represent your best interests every step of the way, offering personalized and attentive service along with aggressive advocacy from start to finish.

How the Harris Firm, LLC Can Help

If you have been injured in an on-the-job accident or diagnosed with a work-related health condition, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Notify your employer as soon as possible, ideally within 30 days of the injury or diagnosis. Additionally, consider consulting a workers' compensation attorney who can guide you through your options and protect your rights.

Our multilingual staff is available to assist you in English, Spanish, Russian, French, Bengali/Vangia, or any other language you prefer for communication. We maintain an open-door policy, meaning you can visit us without an appointment. We offer completely free, no-obligation consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay legal fees if we secure compensation for you.

Our Bronx workers' compensation lawyers are here to fight for your rights and help you obtain the benefits you deserve.

Contact the Harris Firm, LLC today at (718) 487-8669 or through our website to schedule your free consultation.