I was injured doing remodeling at a construction site for an employer that hired me a week before my accident. Can I collect Worker’s Compensation?
Yes. It does not matter how long you have been working on a job. You can always make a Worker’s Compensation claim. Construction workers are notorious for having many employers over their work life. Union members obtain employment through their union. Contractors typically hire non-union workers for specific contracts. After a job, construction workers move onto new employers or are laid off until they find more construction work.
In order to start a Compensation claim, you must notify your employer of your accident and injuries within 30 days of your accident. Second, you need to notify the Compensation Board within two years of your accident. Most injured workers notify their employers immediately after their accident. Additionally, you make the second notification to the Compensation Board either online or you can download a packet from the Compensation Board. Many people hire a Compensation lawyer or representative to help them complete the paperwork.
Scope of Benefits
The employer’s Compensation carrier pays worker’s compensation benefits as soon as your doctor submits a disability report. Also, you must submit your initial report of incident. Worker’s Compensation benefits will pay for your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages while you are recovering from your injuries.
Employers have the right to contest Compensation claims, but if you were injured while doing construction work at the job site during working hours, you will be successful with your claim. Worker’s Compensation will also cover medical and travel expenses to and from the doctor.
Compensation also has a system which awards certain claimants settlements after their treatment has concluded. See Worker’s Compensation Law § 15 and § 32. But you should consult with an attorney before accepting any such settlement.
By James Santner, Esq.
If you have questions about a similar situation, feel free to contact us. Consultations are free and there is no fee unless we win.