If you are injured on the job, you may find yourself struggling physically, emotionally, or financially. Luckily, with the help of an experienced attorney, both you and your family may benefit from gaining access to the worker’s compensation you are entitled to. If you are seeking benefits following a workplace accident, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the indemnity benefits of worker’s compensation?
Essentially, if you sustain an injury on the job that prevents you from coming back to work for two weeks or more, you should receive benefits from the first workday you missed. However, you should also keep in mind that you may not get paid for the first 7 days of your disability if you do not spend the full 14 days out of work. The amount of compensation offered heavily depends on your average weekly wage for the previous year. To calculate weekly cash benefits, multiply ⅔ of your pre-tax weekly wage from the previous year by the percentage of disability, which is subject to a statutory maximum set, based on the year of your accident. Sometimes, this becomes a very complicated process, which is why it usually helps to hire an experienced attorney to help you along the way.
What are the medical benefits I may receive through worker’s compensation?
Under workers’ compensation, you may be entitled to the medical care you deserve and need. If you qualify for medical compensation, you will not have to pay for medical treatment by an authorized provider. In most cases, you may pick your own doctor from the authorized list as well. Unless you have received a notification stating otherwise, you are generally able to choose a physician or a place to provide x-ray exams, diagnostic tests, MRIs, or any other radiological examinations that apply. However, if you have received a notice, immediately contact an attorney. Do not trust the insurance companies to act in your best interest. Hire a trustworthy attorney who will fight for you from beginning to end.
What are the death benefits my family will receive through worker’s compensation?
This is perhaps the grimmest benefit within the worker’s compensation program. However, it is an unfortunately necessary one. At the time of your family member’s death, benefits may be awarded to help out financially. Additionally, if there are individuals in your family who are legally considered dependents, they may be entitled to weekly cash payments, amounting to ⅔ of the worker’s average weekly wage for the year before the accident. If there is no one to pass this money on to, the surviving parent or estate of the deceased may be entitled to a payment of $50,000. Funeral expenses may also be at least partially covered, depending on the county.
Contact our New York firm
The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.
