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Is It Possible To File A Workers’ Compensation Claim For Toxic Exposure?

Roughly one billion workers worldwide are exposed to hazardous chemicals each year. Even with stricter regulations and safety standards, toxic exposure can still happen. These pollutants often cause victims to develop physical injuries, cancer, and other long-term damages they may never recover from. If you were exposed to harmful chemicals due to your employer’s negligence, a workers’ compensation claim would help you recover your damages.

What Exactly Is Toxic Exposure And How Does It Happen?

According to New York’s Department of Heath, toxic exposure is when someone comes into close contact with a poisonous substance or chemical by inhaling, injecting, ingesting, or touching it.

Some of the most common dangerous chemicals in the workplace are:

  • Carbon monoxide
  • Silica
  • Lead
  • Asphalt fumes
  • Asbestos
  • Mercury
  • Beryllium

Depending on the chemical you come into contact with, you can experience anything from mild nausea to more long-term diseases like asthma. You may be at even greater risk if you work in an industry that handles toxic chemicals daily, like food or chemical manufacturing. While everyone should limit their contact with harmful substances, workers in high-risk industries should take extra precautions to avoid long-term health problems.

What Benefits Can You Receive From A Toxic Exposure Claim?

A successful claim will ensure you are cared for while recovering from your injuries. Here are the two most common benefits toxic exposure victims will receive:

Lost Wages

Under New York’s workers’ compensation law, your employer is responsible for covering any wages if you’ve had to take a leave of absence for over seven days to recover from your injuries. They’re also accountable for paying you if your injuries prevent you from working full-time or performing the same tasks you did before the incident. If the accident left you completely disabled, your employer is legally required to cover up to two-thirds of your pre-incident salary.

Medical Bills

Your employer is legally responsible for compensating you for any medical assistance you received to treat your toxic exposure injuries. This can include hospital visits, surgeries, medication, or other related treatments. Additionally, they must cover any long-term or ongoing care you need if it’s connected to your accident.

What To Do After A Work-Related Toxic Exposure Accident

Exposure to dangerous materials is dangerous, even if the incident seems minor. In some cases, seemingly harmless chemicals can have deadly effects if you don’t receive treatment as soon as possible. Seeking immediate medical attention and getting a doctor’s documentation will also serve as valuable evidence in your case. By law, you also need to notify your employer in writing within 30 days of the incident, so make sure you do it right away.

Our Attorneys Are Here To Help

Undoubtedly, sustaining injuries from dangerous chemicals at your job because of an employer’s negligent actions can be devastating. From minor burns to lifelong medical conditions, these damages can prevent you from enjoying life as you used to. Keep in mind, however, that you have a legal right to seek justice and fair compensation from your employer for your damages.

If you’ve suffered an injury due to dangerous chemicals at your job, our workers’ compensation lawyers can help you win the benefits you deserve. Call us at 855-280-7585 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today. We serve Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and more.

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