Like in most states, New York State requires most employers to carry workers’ comp insurance coverage for their employees. For employees injured on the job in the Empire State, this means they will likely receive compensation for any injuries incurred on the job.
Citizens enjoy several employment rights under these laws. Understanding these rights will help New York workers secure the coverage they need when they need it.
Workers’ comp benefits
Like many states in the U.S., New Yorkers can enjoy a few state-specific benefits when it comes to financial compensation for injuries:
- State law requires New York employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance for most employees, including for domestic and agricultural workers.
- For work-related accidents and occupational diseases, employee benefits may include wage replacement, medical coverage and even vocational retraining. These policies do not cover mental health injuries, but wage replacement can cover up to two-thirds of a weekly paycheck.
- New York employers must carry disability coverage for employees. The cash-only wage replacement benefits must last a maximum of 26 weeks and do not provide reimbursement for medical bills. These disability policies cover several conditions, including pregnancy.
- Workers may appeal a denied compensation claim with a judge or through alternative dispute resolution. It is important to include evidence with these appeals, including physician testimony to the extent of a disability and weekly wage documentation.
- Volunteers who helped with World Trade Center rescue or clean-up efforts are also eligible for special workers’ compensation benefits.
Support during financial hardship
Workers’ compensation laws protect American workers during injury and illness, providing the financial security of families in times of hardship. Workers facing a denied claim may want to appeal the ruling with the help of a local attorney familiar with workers’ compensation laws. A lawyer can help navigate the dense paperwork often associated with these claims and help secure a settlement that protects one’s best interests.
