Does New York Workers Comp Cover Work-Related Illnesses?

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When you’re hurt at work, you might know right away what caused your injuries. You might have been in a car crash, injured by malfunctioning machinery, or hit by falling objects. Unfortunately, a work-related illness might not be so easy to prove. You might not even be sure if New York workers comp covers work-related illnesses. 

Your attorney understands that it can be tough to prove your workers comp claim, which is why we’re focused on helping you get your New York work comp benefits. Reach out for help if you’re struggling to get compensation for your work illness. 

Eligibility for Work-Related Illness Coverage

First, what does workers compensation cover? That might be your first question if you’ve never been injured or made sick on the job. Now, you might struggle to understand what your workers comp covers. 

Luckily, most illnesses caused by work conditions are covered by your workers compensation. If you wouldn’t have contracted the condition unless you were at work, you should be eligible for workers comp benefits for your case.

For example, you might have contracted mesothelioma after working in a factory for years. You wouldn’t have been exposed to asbestos if your job didn’t expose you to the dangerous substance. Because of that, you might be eligible for compensation. 

If you’re not sure your illness counts, talk to your New York workers comp lawyer. They can help you determine whether your illness is related to your job and whether you’re covered. 

Proving Your Illness for New York Work Comp

Even if you think you’re covered, you might find that your work comp provider doesn’t agree. You might have already petitioned for your benefits only to be denied the compensation you need for a recovery. That doesn’t mean you’re out of options, though. 

You might instead focus on proving that your illness was work-related. For example, years of exposure to loud noises may cause hearing loss. If your workers comp insurance company initially denies you, you may need more proof that your hearing loss is work-related. Your doctor may run more tests and provide testimony that your work environment caused the damage. 

Seek Work-Related Illness Benefits with Aid from a New York Lawyer

If you’re suffering through a work-related illness, it can be tough to get back to work. That’s especially true if you don’t have the financial support you need to cover the costs of your recovery and support yourself while you can’t work. Worse, you might be asking if New York workers comp covers work-related illnesses at all. 

At Jaghab, Jaghab & Jaghab, PC, we know that seeking compensation for an illness isn’t always easy. If you’re putting your energy into your recovery, your lawyer can give you the help you need for your claim, starting with a free consultation. That way, you know what to expect before you file a claim or dispute a denial. 

Reach out to a New York workers comp lawyer if you’re struggling with your claim. We can be found by calling 516-747-8830 or by completing the online form below.