Workers’
Compensation
Serving the
Finger Lakes, NY Region
Filing a Workers’ Compensation claim can be exhausting
Our compassionate and highly experienced attorneys at Zea Proukou are here to help.
- Workers' Comp laws offer protections and benefits for employees, but they also come with challenges and defenses from employers and insurance companies.
- Allow us to protect your rights, address any potential issues, 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 need help with filing accident paperwork or appealing a denied benefits claim, Zea Proukou is here to assist you.
1.Schedule 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:
Reporting an accident to your employer is not the same as filing a Workers' Compensation claim. To safeguard your rights, you need to submit a C-3 Form to the Workers' Compensation Board with details of your accident or occupational illness. When filling out this form, be sure to list all potential injury areas, disclose any previous similar injuries, and mention any secondary employment or self-employment.
3.Continue follow-ups with your doctor(s) for at least 90 days:
Ensure that your doctors document your degree of disability in every report. If you are less than 100% disabled, your doctor should also note any work restrictions you have.
4.Look for work within your restrictions:
If your doctor determines you have a partial disability (less than 100%), Workers' Compensation Law requires you to stay active in the job market. If your current employer cannot provide suitable work within your restrictions, you need to look for employment elsewhere or show that you are actively participating in the job market. This step is crucial for complying with Workers' Compensation regulations and maintaining your eligibility for benefits.
5.Notify the insurance company when you return to work:
Not reporting any work or work-like activities can be considered Workers' Comp fraud. This could result in repaying received benefits, losing future benefits, and potentially facing criminal charges.
6.Get a permanency evaluation:
About a year after your work injury or surgery (if applicable), it's crucial to have your doctor assess you for permanency. This involves a specific examination where the doctor determines your maximum medical improvement and completes a special form.
While Zea Proukou can assist you at any stage of the process, having an attorney by your side from the start is advantageous. We provide services throughout the Finger Lakes Region. Contact us today to discuss your injury directly with an attorney.
Call us today and speak directly with an attorney about your injury.