Workers’
Compensation Services
in Canandaigua, NY
Navigating a Workers' Compensation claim can be exhausting
Team up with the compassionate and experienced attorneys at Zea Proukou to help.
- Workers’ Comp laws offer protections and benefits for employees but can also come with challenges and defenses from employers and insurance carriers
- We are here to protect your rights, address any potential complications, and ensure you receive the support and compensation you deserve
Whether you need help filling out paperwork to report the accident or you’ve just been denied benefits and need to appeal your claim, contact Zea Proukou here.
WORKERS' COMP
WHAT TO EXPECT
Whether you've just had an accident at work and need assistance filling out paperwork to report it, or you've been denied benefits and help understanding your next steps, Zea Proukou can help.
1.Make a Doctors Appointment:
Most primary care physicians do not handle work-related injuries, often requiring you to seek initial care at emergency rooms or urgent care centers. It's important to consult a Workers' Comp injury healthcare professional quickly, as they are better equipped to address the specific nature of workplace injuries and can provide specialized care and support tailored to your needs.
2.Fill out a C-3, Employee Claim Form:
Submitting an accident report to your employer does not mean you have started a Workers' Compensation claim. To protect your rights, you must file a C-3 Form with the Workers' Compensation Board, providing details of your accident or occupational illness. When completing this form, ensure you include all possible injury areas, disclose any prior similar injuries, and mention any secondary or self-employment.
3.Continue to see your doctor(s) for at least 90 days:
Make sure your doctors document your level of disability in every report. If you are not completely (100%) disabled, your doctor should also specify any work limitations you have.
4. Begin to look for work within your restrictions:
If your doctor determines that you have a partial disability (less than 100%), Workers' Compensation Law requires you to stay engaged with the job market. If your current employer can't offer suitable work within your limitations, you must seek employment elsewhere or demonstrate active job market participation. This is essential for complying with Workers' Compensation regulations and maintaining benefit eligibility.
5. Inform the insurance company if you return to work:
Failing to report any work or work-like activities can be considered Workers' Comp fraud. This can lead to repaying benefits, losing future benefits, and potentially facing criminal charges.
6. Seek a permanency evaluation:
Approximately a year after your work injury or surgery (if applicable), it's important to have your doctor assess you for permanency. This specific examination requires the doctor to determine maximum medical improvement and complete a special form.
While Zea Proukou can help you at any time during this process, it's beneficial to have an attorney assisting you from the beginning.
Reach out to our Canandaigua, NY office today and discuss your injury directly with an attorney.