Workers’ Compensation For Nurses In New York: What You Need to Know

Nurses and other first-line responders are the backbone of our medical system. However, the job is physically and mentally demanding, putting them at a high risk for workplace injuries. Thankfully, New York’s workers’ compensation benefits could give financial support as you recover from the incident. If you’re a nurse who’s been in an accident, learn more about the compensation benefits available and how to qualify.

Are Nurses Prone To More Workplace Accidents?

Nurses have a higher-risk profession and account for 47.7% of work-related injuries in the healthcare industry. Hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics are environments full of potential hazards. From carrying heavy equipment to dealing with aggressive patients, there are plenty of risks a nurse needs to worry about throughout their career.

Common Risks and Injuries Faced By Nurses

Nurses and other healthcare professionals are susceptible to a range of job-related risks and injuries. Some of the most common ones include:

• Musculoskeletal injuries from lifting or moving patients and long hours on their feet
• Burns from fires and explosions
• Slips, trips, and falls in busy and sometimes cluttered medical settings.
• Exposure to infections and contagious diseases
• Allergic reactions
• Needlestick injuries which can lead to severe infections
• Physical or verbal assault from aggressive patients

Workers’ Comp Benefits Available For New York Nurses

In New York, nurses and other healthcare workers injured on the job are entitled to the state’s workers’ compensation benefits until they’re ready to return to work. These include:

• Medical care for your injury or illness from an authorized provider
• Cash benefits for lost wages if you’re unable to work for more than seven days that’s equal to two-thirds of your weekly wage multiplied by the percentage of your disability
• Death benefits for the families of workers who die as a result of their job
• Lump sum Section 32 settlements
• Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) if you lose a limb during the accident
• Further supplemental benefits in cases of permanent or severe disability

How To Start Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

Filing a workers’ compensation is an essential part of securing your benefits. Here are the main steps you need to take to start the process:

• Report Your Injury: According to the state’s law, you have up to 30 days to report your incident and up to two years to file a workers’ comp claim. However, starting everything as soon as possible is advisable to prevent delays in receiving your benefits.

• Seek Immediate Medical Treatment: Getting your injuries treated quickly ensures you receive proper care and gives you an essential piece of evidence you can use when filing your claim. Ensure your healthcare provider documents your injuries and their relation to your job. The more relevant evidence you have, the higher the chance your claim will be approved.

• Submit The Necessary Paperwork: Fill out and submit the necessary forms along with any medical documentation you have. This includes the Employee Claim Form (C-3), which gives the Workers’ Compensation Board a detailed overview of your accident.

Start Your Healthcare Workers’ Compensation Claim Today

If you’re a nurse who recently suffered a workplace accident, don’t delay in filing your claim. Turley Redmond & Rosasco, L.L.P., offers expert legal services that meet the needs of New York’s healthcare workers. Our workers’ compensation attorneys will guide you through the process and ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to. Please contact us online or call 855-208-9438 to schedule a free consultation today.