Frequently Asked Questions

We do believe this is the right way to proceed. Workers’ compensation laws are complex, but the progression of your case could have a stark effect on your future. Having the right team on your side makes all the difference.

The sooner you get in touch with a lawyer, the better. Avoid the applicable deadlines and improve your chances of a successful case outcome by contacting a workers’ compensation attorney you trust right away.

Workers Comp Claims in the US are no-fault claims. This means you can receive workers compensation even if it is your fault.

If you return to work and find that you cannot do your job, reopening your workers’ compensation case is an option. You may collect benefits again if your injuries keep you out of work for longer than you expected. You also have the right to ask for changes to your job to accommodate your injury. 

Yes. This is known as Intermittent Lost Time. Keep all records, both pay stubs and records of absent days. Also, be sure to let your insurer know as soon as possible.

We understand that having legal conversations in a second language can be frustrating. Our staff speak Spanish, Russian, Polish, Chinese, Hindi, and Punjabi. We are there for you in every way.

Yes! Ugalde & Rzonca, LLP always has an attorney available during office hours.

Your workers compensation claim  may have been denied for several reasons. As your workers comp attorneys, we may be able to help. Give as a call. Some reasons for denial are below. They include: 

• Your injury had  no witnesses
• You did not report your injury within the time period
• Your medical and accident report are inconsistent
• Your medical records indicate you had drugs or alcohol in your system
• Your workers compensation claim was filed  after being fired or laid-of

New York law requires all employers to have workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer has violated the lawyer, you may need to sue them directly to receive compensation.

Absolutely. You have the right to change your attorney at any point in your case. In most personal injury actions, this will not result in higher fees. Your attorney should be someone you trust, and you should be able to enjoy a relationship with him / her of mutual respect and courtesy. If you are not happy with your current representation, you have the right to seek a new lawyer.

Your attorney should be the first to know. They can let the Workers’ Compensation Board know, as well as work with your insurance company on your case.

No. Workers’ compensation laws in New York do prevent you from suing your boss directly; however, you may be entitled to file suit against the owner of the job site and / or your general contractor.

Returning to work can help you heal more quickly, and it brings the advantage of additional income and benefits. In addition, workers do not get raises or promotions while out of work. Because workers’ compensation does not match your full pay, many workers choose to return to work after an injury.

The answer is partially dependent on what you earned prior to being injured. However, if you return to work but find that your pay has been decreased due to your work-related disability, workers’ compensation payments can help make up the difference. This is known as a reduced earnings benefit.

Absolutely. In fact, you can ask to be repaid for travel costs, medications, and any other prescribed treatment.

No. In fact, prospective employers are forbidden from asking you about workers’ compensation claims. They also cannot deny you employment for past claims.