Workplace injuries happen, even when workplace safety protocols are in place and diligently followed. That’s why workers’ compensation insurance exists. This vital safety net is there for you if you’ve been hurt at work or while in the performance of job-related duties.
In New York State, it doesn’t matter who was at fault — if injured in this way, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits help protect you from financial hardship while you recover. But what exactly does workers’ compensation cover?
The system can be confusing, but the experienced New York construction accident lawyers at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are here to help. Contact us online or call 516-342-2200 for your free consultation today! Alternatively, please continue reading.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation insurance functions as a safety net to protect employees and employers alike. It works by providing financial assistance to employees who are injured or become ill due to work-related reasons.
This means that if you’re injured on the job or suffer from a work-related illness, you may be entitled to benefits that can cover your medical bills and lost wages. These benefits can even help you retrain for a new career if your injury prevents you from doing your old job.
In exchange for providing this safety net, businesses are generally protected from lawsuits by injured employees. It might sound like a simple trade-off, but workers’ compensation laws are complicated and can change depending on where you live.
A qualified workers’ compensation attorney like the ones at Schwartzapfel Lawyers can help you better understand exactly what you’re entitled to and walk you through the entire process. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Instead, act now and dial 516-342-2200 today!
What Medical Benefits Does Workers’ Comp Offer?
When you’re hurt on the job, taking care of yourself should be your first priority. To this end, workers’ comp insurance covers the medical treatment(s) required to treat work-related injuries.
This coverage includes emergency room visits, surgeries, prescriptions, and physical therapy — all the essentials to help get you fully healthy again. What’s more, you can be in charge of your own health care.
You get to choose your own doctor instead of having to see someone your employer’s insurance company throws at you. Remember, you deserve a physician who understands your injury, who you feel comfortable with, and who is committed to your recovery.
Sometimes, getting the right medical care can be a battle. Insurance companies are businesses, and they might try to cut corners. That’s where a skilled workers’ compensation team like Schwartzapfel Lawyers shines. Think of us as your medical advocates.
We’ll fight to make sure you get connected with the best doctors and top-notch care providers you need to fully heal. Don’t accept anything less than the excellent treatment you deserve.
What Wage Replacement Benefits Does Workers’ Comp Offer?
The effects of a workplace injury extend beyond physical pain. Missing work means missing paychecks, creating financial stress for you and your family. It’s also important to remember that a serious injury can impact your retirement savings.
Workers’ compensation helps by providing wage replacement benefits to cover some of your lost income, sometimes up to two-thirds of the employee’s wage before their impairment.
That said, the wage replacement system can be complicated. Included among the different types of disability covered under workers’ compensation laws, there is:
- Temporary Total Disability: When an injured worker is unable to work at all during their recovery.
- Temporary Partial Disability: When an injured worker can return to light-duty work but not at full-earning capacity.
- Permanent Total Disability: When a worker’s injury prevents them from ever returning to work.
- Permanent Partial Disability: When an injured worker is able to work but their injury permanently limits their career options and/or financial earning potential.
All that to say, please don’t try to figure this out alone – not when you don’t have to. A seasoned attorney will work to ensure that you get all the wage replacement benefits you’re entitled to by law.
Contact Schwartzapfel Lawyers for a free consultation today. Simply dial 516-342-2200 or reach out to us online.
What Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits Does Workers’ Comp Offer?
When a workplace injury leaves you unable to return to your previous job, workers’ compensation can provide much-needed support via vocational rehabilitation programs. These solutions offer a lifeline by way of:
- Retraining
- Assistance in developing new skills
- Help finding a job that accommodates your circumstances
This support is crucial for those whose careers are forever changed by a work-related injury. Moreover, it can give you peace of mind as you work to rehabilitate your body.
What Are Death Benefits?
In the most tragic cases, workers’ compensation insurance provides death benefits to the survivors of those killed on the job. These benefits are designed to ease some of the financial burdens that families face after losing a loved one by replacing lost income and mitigating other expenses.
What Are Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits?
If your recovery leaves you unable to return to your previous type of work, workers’ compensation may provide supplemental job displacement benefits. These benefits can help cover the costs of retraining for a new career or obtaining skills necessary for finding a new position within your capabilities.
Compliance With State Regulations
Understanding the specific regulations and requirements in your state is critical for protecting both your employees and your business. Here, an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you ensure that you are in compliance and that your employees receive the full benefits they are entitled to.
To better gauge the scope of benefits available to you based on the specifics of your injury and the laws of your state, contact Schwartzapfel Lawyers today at 516-342-2200 or reach out to us online.
Are There Exclusions To Workers’ Comp Coverage?
It’s important to know that workers’ compensation coverage isn’t a blank check and that there are situations where you might not be eligible for benefits.
For example, injuries that happen outside the performance of job-related duties aren’t typically covered. Additionally, if an injury is intentionally self-inflicted or happens while intoxicated, workers’ comp likely won’t apply.
Note: Even in these seemingly clear-cut cases, there can be gray areas. That’s why it’s so important to talk to a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer when in doubt.
An experienced attorney will understand the nuances of workers’ compensation laws and can help you determine if your situation qualifies for benefits. In this way, you can think of a seasoned workers’ comp lawyer as your personal guide. They’ll analyze your unique situation and fight for your rights every step of the way.
And so, if you have any doubts about whether your injury is covered under workers’ comp, it’s best to discuss your case with a professional right away. Contact the seasoned attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers for a free consultation. Call 516-342-2200 or reach us online today.
What Should You Do After A Work-Related Injury?
A workplace injury can throw your life into limbo. Knowing exactly what to do (and in what order) makes all the difference in an optimal recovery. To assist, here’s your roadmap for taking control of the situation:
Get Medical Attention Right Away
Don’t try to tough it out. Your health is a top priority. Head to the ER, an urgent care clinic, or the doctor if you’re hurt on the job. Don’t delay! Even seemingly minor injuries can worsen over time.
Contact An Experienced Workers’ Comp Lawyer
The sooner you consult an attorney, the better. Don’t go through this process alone. A seasoned lawyer should protect your rights from day one and make sure you’re on the right track throughout the claims process.
Notify Your Employer
Be clear: You were hurt on the job or while in the performance of job-related duties. Follow your company’s rules on reporting injuries. Keep in mind that each state has deadlines for notifying your employer. Don’t miss these deadlines, as it could make things more difficult when you file your workers’ compensation claim.
Why Is Hiring A Skilled Lawyer So Important?
Your legal team should work to protect you from insurance company tactics that could minimize your compensation; they should be willing and able to fight to get you every benefit you’re entitled to under law.
So, please, don’t wait another minute. The skilled attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are standing by to take your call. Your consultation will be free and may well save you miles of headache, heartache, and financial strain down the road. Dial 516-342-2200 or visit us online today!
Why Do Businesses Need Workers’ Comp Coverage?
If you’re a business owner, you understand the importance of balancing insurance coverage and premiums with protecting your bottom line. Workers’ compensation insurance is a type of business insurance — and in most states, it’s the law.
Moreover, job-related injuries happen even in the safest environments. And so, if an injured employee files a workers’ compensation claim, the insurance helps cover their medical expenses and lost wages. This coverage can be essential for small businesses, especially if faced with a serious injury claim.
Still, workers’ comp benefits go beyond the immediate costs of an accident. Failing to carry workers’ compensation insurance in states where it’s required could expose you to serious consequences.
These may include hefty fines, hefty penalties, or even business closure. To stay on the right track as a business owner, you’ll want to keep the following considerations in mind:
- State Laws: Workers’ compensation insurance requirements vary by state. Some states have minimums on the number of employees before coverage becomes mandatory. Make sure you understand the specific regulations in your state.
- Independent Contractors: The rules surrounding independent contractors and workers’ comp get tricky. Consult a legal or insurance professional for guidance.
- Insurance Carriers: Not all insurance companies are created equal. Look for a carrier with experience in workers’ compensation insurance. They’ll understand how to tailor an insurance policy to your specific business needs.
- Focus On Safety: Preventing injuries is always the best strategy. A strong workplace safety program can help reduce accidents and potentially lower your workers’ comp premiums.
Understanding your responsibilities and having the right workers’ compensation policy in place can give peace of mind to both yourself and your workers. As such, you shouldn’t leave your business vulnerable when it doesn’t have to be. Instead, consult with a skilled legal professional to ensure you have the right protections in place today.
Schwartzapfel Lawyers: Your Partner In Securing Workers’ Comp Benefits
Workers’ compensation is invaluable when you or a loved one has suffered a work-related injury. However, it can be difficult to first file and then manage on your own. That’s where the experienced New York construction accident attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers step in.
We’ll fight tirelessly to get you all the money and benefits you deserve. We’re here to take the burden off your shoulders and provide guidance while we work toward results.
Don’t risk losing out on the benefits you’re entitled to. One call could make all the difference. Contact Schwartzapfel Lawyers today at 516-342-2200 or reach us online to set up your free consultation.
Your future is worth protecting. Act now and have Schwartzapfel Lawyers fight for you!
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this page should be considered legal advice. You should seek the appropriate counsel your situation requires. For more information, call 516-342-2200 now!
Sources:
Schwartzapfel Lawyers, P.C. | Fighting For You
Vocational Rehabilitation FAQs | U.S. Department of Labor (DOL.gov)
Workers’ Compensation Understanding the Claims Process | NYS Workers’ Compensation Board
Workers’ Compensation Insurance | City of New York
A safe workplace is sound business | Occupational Safety and Health Administration
