The pain is relentless, making even simple tasks feel impossible. Your paycheck is gone, and the medical bills keep piling up. How will you keep up with your expenses while you’re trying to heal? Sadly, this is the harsh reality that injured workers face, and if it sounds familiar, we want you to know you have legal options to help you get back on your feet.
New York law requires most employers with one or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance on behalf of their workers. Injured workers are entitled to these benefits regardless of who caused the accident that injured them, with limited exceptions. Workers’ compensation claims can get delayed, undervalued, or even denied. When this happens, a qualified workers’ compensation attorney can help.
At Fessenden Laumer & DeAngelo, PLLC, we’ve been standing up for injured workers in Concord and throughout Erie County for nearly 40 years. We can help you handle the claims process, fight back against denied or delayed claims, and help you secure the benefits you need to heal. You’ve worked hard all your life. Let our team work hard for you. Call (716) 484-1010 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation about your Concord work accident.
New York law mandates that nearly all employers have workers’ compensation insurance. This protection extends to full-time and part-time workers, including seasonal staff. Temporary, leased, borrowed, and unpaid workers are covered, too. Independent contractors are likely covered if they perform the job and are supervised as though they were employees and if the work they’re doing is a regular part of the employer’s business.
Workers’ compensation insurance protects Concord workers who are injured at work. Multiple benefits are available, including:
After a workplace accident in Concord, your first priority should be seeking medical attention, even if the injury seems minor. Prompt medical care ensures that your injuries are properly documented and can prevent complications later. Even seemingly minor injuries can lead to long-term issues, so it’s crucial to get checked by a healthcare professional. Except for emergency treatment, the medical professional who treats you must be approved by the New York Workers’ Compensation Board.
Once you’ve received medical attention, report the incident to your employer within 30 days to comply with New York’s workers’ compensation rules. Delaying this step can result in your claim being denied or delayed, so timely reporting is essential.
Keep a record of your medical treatments, including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, and rehabilitation plans. Gather witness statements from anyone who saw the accident and maintain a detailed communication log of any correspondence or conversations with your employer and their insurance company.
Yes. Although you’re not required by law to have one, a lawyer can make the process much easier for you, as they already know all the ins and outs of securing benefits for injured workers.
Insurance companies may dispute your claim by arguing your injuries weren’t caused at work or offer lower benefits than necessary to minimize their payout. If your Concord workers’ compensation claim is disputed, you’ll need to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board.
In New York, you have two years from your date of accident to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board. If your injury relates to a medical condition caused by work, the statute of limitations begins when you discover or reasonably should have known about the condition.
Some claims are resolved informally, while others go through conciliation, where a WCB-employed attorney helps mediate a resolution. More contested cases are taken before a Workers’ Compensation Judge for a hearing.
If the judge denies your claim, you can appeal to a Board Panel, which may uphold, modify, or overturn the decision. If the panel’s decision is not unanimous, you can request a full Board review or appeal to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Third Judicial Department, and potentially higher courts.
The appeals process involves strict deadlines, extensive paperwork, and gathering strong evidence. Missing a deadline or submitting incomplete information can jeopardize your claim. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can ensure that deadlines are met and evidence is properly collected. They will fight for the benefits you deserve, which allows you to focus on recovery rather than fighting the system.
If you’ve been hurt at work in Concord, NY, you deserve a legal team that is as committed to your recovery as you are. At Fessenden Laumer & DeAngelo, PLLC, we will stand by your side to help you through the workers’ compensation claim process and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to.
We will take the time to learn about your individual situation and tailor our legal strategies to meet your specific needs. We will dedicate ourselves to advocating fiercely for you and your family. We’re your partners in this fight, and your well-being is always our focus.
Please don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Get in touch to discuss your workers’ compensation claim to learn about your legal options. Call (716) 484-1010 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.
Our Jamestown, NY office is located at 81 Forest Avenue. Driving directions are as follows:
From the North:
Head south on NY-60 S toward Jamestown. Continue on NY-60 S until you reach the intersection with Forest Ave. Turn left onto Forest Ave, and 81 Forest Ave will be on your right after a few blocks.
From the South:
Head north on US-62 N toward Jamestown. Continue on US-62 N until it becomes E 2nd St. Turn right onto Forest Ave, and 81 Forest Ave will be on your left.
From the East:
Take I-86 W/NY-17 W to the Jamestown exit (Exit 12). Follow signs for NY-60 N/Jamestown. Continue on NY-60 N until you reach Forest Ave. Turn right onto Forest Ave, and 81 Forest Ave will be on your right.
From the West:
Take I-86 E/NY-17 E to the Jamestown exit (Exit 12). Follow signs for NY-60 N. Continue on NY-60 N and turn right onto Forest Ave. 81 Forest Ave will be on your left.
