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Top Valley Stream, NY Workers' Compensation Lawyers

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Hurt at work in Valley Stream, NY? Our attorneys can help

Get the best possible outcome for your claim after a work injury or illness

Valley Stream is a village within Nassau County on Long Island, near the border of Queens. The local economy of Valley Stream is similar to many suburban areas in Long Island. It includes a mix of retail, services, healthcare, education, and small to medium-sized businesses.

While Valley Stream boasts a diverse economy, its workers aren’t immune to occupational injuries and health conditions. If you’re injured on the job, schedule a free consultation with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in the Valley Stream area. They can guide you through the claims process and secure the compensation you deserve.

Learn more about how a Valley Stream workers' comp attorney can help:

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In Valley Stream, NY, the most common types of workplace accidents and injuries that lead to workers’ comp claims include:

  • Slips, trips, and falls: These are among the most frequent workplace injuries. They occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, icy walkways, or cluttered areas. These incidents can lead to injuries ranging from minor bruises to broken bones and head injuries.
  • Overexertion: This includes injuries related to lifting, pulling, or carrying heavy objects. These actions often result in muscle strains or sprains, particularly in the back and shoulders.
  • Contact with objects and equipment: Workers can experience cuts, lacerations, or more severe injuries such as fractures or amputations from accidents with machinery, tools, or falling objects.
  • Motor vehicle incidents: These accidents are particularly relevant for employees who drive as part of their job (e.g., delivery drivers or salespeople who travel extensively). 
  • Exposure to harmful substances: Workers in industries such as manufacturing and healthcare might be exposed to chemicals or other hazardous materials. These can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, or other serious health issues.

An experienced lawyer can help ensure your claim is filed correctly and advocate on your behalf if your claim is denied or disputed. Here are some important tips for filing a workers' compensation claim in New York:

1. Report the injury to your employer immediately

Notify your employer in writing about your work-related injury or illness as soon as possible, and within 30 days of the incident or discovery of your work-related health condition.

Be sure to include the following details:

  • Date and time of the incident or when you discovered an occupational illness.
  • Location of the work accident.
  • Description and cause of the work accident.
  • The nature of your injuries and the parts of the body affected.
  • Any immediate first aid or emergency medical care.

2. Seek medical attention

If you were involved in a workplace accident or developed an occupational illness, it’s important to get medical attention as soon as possible. A prompt medical evaluation ensures your health and safety, as well as establishes a link between your injury and your job.

When choosing a doctor, make sure they’re authorized by the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board, except when emergency medical care is needed.

Clearly tell the healthcare provider that your injury or illness is work-related. This ensures that they record all the details in your medical report from the perspective of a workers' compensation case.

3. Gather evidence

When preparing to file a workers' compensation claim in New York, be sure to gather comprehensive evidence to support your case. That includes:

  • Photographs of the work accident scene and the conditions that contributed to it.
  • Statements from co-workers, supervisors, bystanders, or other witnesses.
  • A copy of the official accident or incident report if one was filed by your employer.
  • All medical records relating to your treatment.

4. File a claim with the Workers' Compensation Board

To initiate your claim, you’ll need to complete Form C-3 and submit it to the New York Workers’ Compensation Board within two years from the date of your work accident or discovering your occupational illness.

The information you’ll need to provide include:

  • Your name, social security number, and contact information.
  • Your employer’s name and address and your job description.
  • A description of your work accident, injury, or occupational illness.
  • The last day you worked and when you might return back to work.
  • A description of any medical treatment you received.
  • Witness names and contact information (if any were available).

5. Follow medical treatment recommendations

To have a viable workers’ comp claim, you’ll need to show that you’re serious about getting medical treatment and making a recovery. Attend all scheduled appointments and follow your doctor's orders for medical treatment and rehabilitation. Failing to do so could jeopardize your claim.

Avoid physical activities that could disprove your injury and never try to work another job while you’re out on workers’ comp. Insurance companies will be watching and can use evidence of your activities to delay or deny your compensation.

6. Keep records

It’s important to keep detailed records that support your workers’ compensation claim, especially if any disputes arise. Records you should maintain throughout the process include:

  • A copy of the accident or incident report filed by your employer.
  • Initial medical records such as emergency room records, doctor’s notes, and diagnostic results.
  • Ongoing treatment such as follow-up visits, physical therapy, and any surgeries.
  • Receipts and prescriptions for medications.
  • Medical bills and receipts, including out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Communication records with your employer, insurance companies, and the board.
  • Records of any work days missed due to your injury.

If your workers' compensation claim in New York is denied, you have several options to challenge the decision and seek a resolution. First, understand why your claim was denied. The denial notice should specify the reasons for rejection, which could include:

  • The injury not being reported on time
  • The injury not being deemed work-related
  • Lack of medical evidence
  • Missing documentation

You can then request an administrative hearing within 30 days of the original decision. Before the hearing, collect any additional evidence that supports your claim. This could include more detailed medical records, new statements from witnesses, or expert testimony about your job's physical demands and how they relate to your injury.

During the hearing, you can present your evidence and argue your case. The employer or their insurance carrier will also present their side. It’s best to let an experienced attorney present a compelling argument for you.

After reviewing the evidence and testimonies, the judge will make a decision regarding your claim. If the decision is favorable, your claim will be approved for benefits. If not, you have the right to appeal to a three-member panel of the Workers' Compensation Board. This appeal must be filed within 30 days of the judge's decision. The panel will review the case and issue a decision.

If you disagree with the Board Panel’s decision, you can take your appeal to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Third Department. If the Appellate Division's decision is still unsatisfactory, you can appeal to the New York State Court of Appeals, which is the highest court in New York.

If you’re hurt on the job in Valley Stream, you may qualify for workers' compensation. You must prove that your injury or illness is connected to your job functions and occurred while you were engaged in work-related activities.

Plus, you must be an employee. If you’re an independent contractor or freelancer, you may not receive workers’ comp benefits, but you may have other options for seeking compensation.

Any injury caused by misconduct such as self-inflicted injuries, violations of company safety policies, drug use or intoxication, fighting, or committing a crime.

Having an experienced Valley Stream workers' comp lawyer by your side can significantly increase your chances of getting the financial benefits you deserve. They can guide you through every step and ensure that you understand your rights and the claims process.

What's more, you won't have to worry about upfront costs. Valley Stream workers' comp lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, which means their payment depends solely on the outcome of your case. You only pay if they secure a victory for you.

Don’t delay in getting the help you need. Start by scheduling a free consultation today. During this consultation, a lawyer will review your case details, offer initial advice, and outline what you can expect moving forward. Contact a Valley Stream workers' comp attorney today to discuss how they can assist you with your claim and fight for the benefits you deserve.

Injured? Call Now
1-866-828-0442
Talk to a LAW.COM Premier Attorney today!

Free Evaluation

Tell us about your potential case.

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By submitting you agree to our Terms & Privacy Policy.
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Injured? Speak to a LAW.COM
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1-866-828-0442 or Submit Your Case Form