Hamburg Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Hurt at Work? Hurwitz, Whitcher & Molloy Can Help

Our workers’ compensation lawyers in Hamburg, NY are well-adept at handling a variety of workers’ compensation cases. We know first-hand the struggles employees face when they’re needing workers’ compensation. In addition to the initial difficulties that arise from work-related injuries, we understand that filing for workers’ compensation can be a stressful process. Unfortunately, this process can be made harder when dealing with unwilling employers. However, any workplace that participates in workers’ compensation is required to file. Whether you’re having difficulty getting the process started, find yourself dealing with a difficult employer, or simply want to discuss your various options, then you should contact Hurwitz Whitcher & Molloy Attorneys at Law. 

What Workers’ Compensation Covers

Workers’ compensation can cover wide needs including medical and rehabilitation expenses, lost wages, work-related injuries, and even death benefits to the families of employees killed on the job. 

When hearing workers’ compensation, most people think of work-related injuries such as automobile accidents or losing a limb. While these are often the most common cases, workers’ compensation also covers a wide array of needs and services. In addition to injuries such as a broken back when loading freight, torn muscles, losing a limb, or falling from high heights, workers’ compensation also covers “occupational diseases”.

Occupational diseases can cover anything from the loss or reduction of sight or hearing, carpal tunnel syndrome, lung disease, etc. Such diseases are a direct result of working conditions and while they might be harder to link to the workplace, they are all issues that can be covered under workers’ compensation. Unfortunately, they can sometimes be harder to prove and this makes some employers unwilling to do the necessary paperwork. Our lawyers know you have rights and if you’re having difficulty receiving compensation then should enlist the help of our workers’ compensation lawyers in Hamburg, NY. 

The Services We Provide for Our Clients

We provide a wide array of services for our clients when it comes to workers’ compensation. Some services include:

• General Consulting: Even if you’re not having difficulty dealing with an employer you might still have questions or concerns regarding the process. Meet with one of our lawyers who can help you and walk you through every step of the process.

• Work-Related Injuries: Anything from automobile accidents to broken bones or torn muscles can be a work-related injury that’s covered. 

• Occupational Diseases: If you’ve developed an occupational disease as a direct link to the workplace then our lawyers can help. 

• Dealing with Employers: Sometimes employers are unwilling to file a claim. Luckily, our lawyers are here to apply legal pressure when necessary. 

While many people are aware that employees who suffer a work-related injury usually qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, some people do not realize that employees who contract or develop an illness or medical condition that is related to their job duties are also eligible for workers’ comp benefits under New York law. If you have developed an occupational illness or condition, a workers’ comp lawyer in Hamburg NY can explain what type of benefits you may qualify for and help ensure you receive those benefits.

High-Risk Occupations

Although an occupational illness or disease can occur in any occupation given the right circumstances, there are certain occupations where the rate of these incidents is much higher than in others. Some of the most common that a Hamburg NY workers’ comp lawyer works with include:

• Agriculture: Those who work in the agricultural industry are exposed to all kinds of chemicals that are in fertilizers and pesticides. Agricultural workers may also develop lung issues from inhaling grain dust and other particles.
• Construction and manufacturing: There are all kinds of chemicals that construction workers and manufacturing employees are exposed to, as well as other hazardous materials. One example of these hazards and the tragic illnesses they can cause is asbestos. Those employees who work in these industries often develop respiratory illnesses, cancers, and skin conditions.
• Firefighters: Not only do firefighters face the perils of fire in their occupation, but they also face high risks of developing respiratory issues due to smoke and ash inhalation. There is also a high risk of certain cancers because of the gases and fumes that emit from materials that are burning.
• Health care workers: Anyone who works in the medical field – including EMTs, doctors, and nurses – are always at risk of exposure to dangerous pathogens that cause diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis, and COVID-19.

Compensation for Occupational Diseases

Under New York’s workers’ compensation laws, an employee who has developed a work-related illness or other medical condition may be entitled to benefits. In order to qualify for those benefits, however, the worker must show that their condition developed because of their work (duties, environment, etc.). The worker must show that their condition is a result of some hazard connected to their work. This can be difficult to do, which is why many workers who develop an occupational illness will turn to a workers’ comp lawyer to advocate for them against their employer and the employer’s insurance company.

Why Should You Call a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?

If you have been injured on the job, or if you have developed a work-related illness, you may be wondering if you should contact a lawyer. Many workers delay reaching out to a lawyer because they think it’s too serious of a step, too expensive, or too difficult to find someone who will understand their case. The truth is, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Here are some more truths about contacting a workers’ comp lawyer in Hamburg, NY.

It Helps Protect You

Dealing with an injury or illness can make it hard to focus on other things. Hiring a workers’ comp lawyer in Hamburg, NY will help alleviate that burden. Your lawyer may be able to advise you on what steps you need to take or what documents you need to gather. Your lawyer can help you submit your claim, and may be able to answer questions for you along the way. This helps ensure that you don’t miss the window to apply for workers’ compensation and that your claim has the best chance of being approved.

It Doesn’t Cost You Money Upfront

Many workers’ comp lawyers in Hamburg, NY, and elsewhere work on what’s called a contingency fee. This means that your Hurwitz, Witcher, and Molloy, LLP lawyer does not get paid unless your claim is approved and paid out. You will pay a percentage of your award to your lawyer after you receive the money. This percentage may vary based on your case, and your lawyer can go over all the details with you at the start of your case.

It Gives You Someone in Your Corner

Hiring a lawyer from Hurwitz, Witcher, and Molloy, LLP can give you more than just legal support- it can give you someone who truly understands your case and what you’re facing. Your lawyer may have worked on similar cases to yours in the past, and that can give your case an edge.  Your lawyer may also be able to tailor your claim in a way that will best serve you and your future recovery. That type of support is invaluable as you work to regain your health and the value of your missed work time.

Reaching out to a workers’ comp lawyer in Hamburg, NY as soon as possible after you are injured or develop a work-related illness is an important first step on the road to recovery. Don’t put it off.

Contact Us Today

Work-related injuries and occupational diseases are sometimes a reality of the workplace. To make the process easier it’s recommended to enlist the help of a legal team. Whether you have some initial concerns or questions, are dealing with an unwilling employer, or simply want to discuss all your options, then you should enlist the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer in Hamburg, NY. You can contact Hurwitz Whitcher & Molloy Attorneys at Law today.