Workers’ Comp Attorney – Hauppauge, NY
As an employer or an employee, it’s important to have a sound knowledge of how workers’ compensation works. Should you ever have questions about workers’ compensation law, please do not hesitate to connect with an experienced Hauppauge, New York workers’ comp attorney. Because this area of law is both complex and consequential, it is important to seek guidance whenever you are unsure of your rights and/or obligations under the system. The experienced team at Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. is always happy to help ensure that you are making informed decisions about your situation in regards to workers’ comp.
Are employers required to carry workers’ compensation?
Yes. By law, the vast majority of employers are required to have workers’ comp in place. In some states, employers with even one employee are still required by law to carry this insurance.
Does workers’ compensation benefit employers?
Yes again! Workers’ compensation, beyond making the workplace safer for employees and protecting those employees, also protects employers. It’s an insurance policy that protects employers from some lawsuits and mitigates the financial risk many businesses face when an employee is injured. With that said, having workers’ comp in place is no reason to let safety standards slip. Employers can still be held responsible for unsafe working conditions under a number of circumstances.
What happens if an employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation?
If an employee is injured on the job and an employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation, they risk being sued by that employee. One of the main tradeoffs of workers’ comp is that employees who receive these benefits generally forfeit the ability to sue employers for additional damages related to an on-site injury. Without workers’ compensation, employers open themselves up to the risk of what can amount to massive financial and legal strain. Anyone affected by an injurious accident on-site at a place of business without workers’ compensation insurance coverage in place should consider speaking with a Hauppauge, NY workers’ comp attorney about their situation.
Does workers’ compensation typically over independent contractors?
No. Workers’ compensation typically only covers full-time employees and some part-time workers. However, individuals who do not qualify for workers’ comp and are injured on the job may have other forms of legal recourse available. A Hauppauge, NY workers’ comp attorney can provide clarity and guidance about these kinds of scenarios.
When is the best time to file a workers’ compensation claim?
Under most circumstances, it’s best to file a workers’ compensation claim as soon as possible after an injury has occurred. Illnesses may be a little bit different, as they can take more time to manifest. Regardless, the sooner someone files a workers’ comp claim, the better. With that said, it is generally a good idea to have a Hauppauge, NY workers’ comp attorney look over one’s paperwork and supporting documentation before submitting it. Taking this single extra step can help to ensure approval and payment without unnecessary delay.
Does workers’ compensation cover medical bills?
Yes. Beyond providing compensation for lost wages, workers’ compensation provides payment (or reimbursement, in some cases) for medical costs. These costs must be related to the diagnosis and treatment of the injury or illness caused by on-the-job duties, though.
Do employees get to choose their medical provider under workers’ compensation?
The laws surrounding this issue vary from state to state. In some states, employees are allowed to see their regular medical doctor for diagnosis and treatment in workers’ comp cases. In others, employers are responsible for selecting a medical provider for their employees. Whichever the case, the doctor’s medical report often has a big impact on the benefits an injured employee will receive as a result of their injury or illness. Questions about this reality may be directed to an experienced Hauppauge, NY workers’ comp attorney.
