Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Staten Island, NY

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Staten Island, New York?

  If you need to get in touch with the local police station in Staten Island for non-emergency matters, dial 311.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Staten Island, New York?

  You can get a Staten Island police report copy online or by mail. Download the form at www.nyc.gov or pick it up at a police precinct, Housing Bureau public service area, or Transit Bureau district. To request by mail, send two completed forms and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the Criminal Records Unit at 375 Pearl Street, Suite 4 on the 16th floor in New York, NY 10038.

• What happens when a workers' compensation claim is denied in Staten Island?

  When a workers' compensation claim in Staten Island is denied, a written notice is sent explaining the cause of the denial and the subsequent appeals process. It is suggested that the claimant hires a legal representative to assist them throughout the proceedings. It's imperative to act expeditiously, as there's a strict time frame of 30 days to file an appeal.

• What are the advantages of having legal representation for a workers' compensation claim in Staten Island?

  Having a workers' compensation attorney in Staten Island expedites the process and increases the likelihood of receiving the benefits one is entitled to. Without legal representation, the insurance company may deny or delay the claim. A lawyer can work with the insurer on behalf of the claimant to ensure a prompt and fair resolution. Additionally, an attorney's knowledge and experience in workers' compensation law can help claimants navigate the complex legal system and obtain maximum compensation.

• How are workers' compensation benefits in Staten Island calculated?

  Workers' compensation benefits in Staten Island are calculated based on the injured employee's average weekly wage in the previous year. The amount of compensation is equivalent to two-thirds of the median weekly salary, multiplied by the percentage of disability. Unless the disability term extends beyond two weeks, the payment for the initial seven days of disability is not disbursed.

• Can an employee in Staten Island reopen their old workers' compensation claim if their injury worsens?

  Yes, an employee in Staten Island may be able to reopen their old workers' compensation claim if their work-related injury worsens beyond the original diagnosis. However, the burden of providing substantial and convincing proof rests with the worker to justify reopening the case. The involvement of an adept workers' compensation attorney can be beneficial in constructing a robust argument.

• Can employees in Staten Island with occupational illnesses be eligible for workers' compensation benefits?

  Yes. If work duties cause or contribute to an occupational illness, employees in Staten Island may qualify for workers' compensation benefits. Just like employees who sustain injuries in on-the-job accidents, those with occupational diseases can receive financial aid for medical expenses and lost wages. The employee has up to two years from the date of their disability to report the work-related occupational disease to be eligible for compensation.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.