New York Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
New York workers’ compensation is governed by the New York Workers’ Compensation Law. Unlike several neighboring states, NY permits workers to select their own authorized treating physician from the outset. We represent injured NY workers across the state.
Benefits Framework in New York
Most NY employees are covered. The 2026 maximum weekly wage-loss benefit is $1,171.46, paid at two-thirds of average weekly wage. Workers choose their own physician from the list of providers authorized by the New York Workers’ Compensation Board. Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) awards compensate for permanent partial impairments to specific body parts.
Deadlines That Can Destroy Your Claim
Notice to employer: within 30 days. Claim petition (Form C-3): two years from the date of injury. Death benefits: two years from date of death. Occupational-disease claims: two years from date of diagnosis.
Permanent Disability & Impairment
NY uses its own classification system for permanent disability. Permanent partial disability benefits are capped based on loss-of-wage-earning-capacity percentage, with durations from 225 to 525 weeks depending on impairment level.
Retaliatory Discharge Protections
NY prohibits retaliatory discharge under Workers’ Compensation Law §120. Workers fired in retaliation may recover lost wages and attorney fees.
Third-Party Claims
A workers’ compensation claim covers medical care and two-thirds of lost wages, but not pain and suffering or the full amount of lost wages. If a third party (a negligent contractor, a defective-equipment manufacturer, a property owner) caused or contributed to your injury, you may bring a separate personal injury lawsuit against that party. We coordinate both claims so the workers’ comp insurer’s subrogation lien is properly managed and your net recovery is maximized.
What to Do Right Now
- Report the injury to your supervisor in writing.
- Get medical care (follow your state’s rules on panel providers).
- Keep copies of every email, text, and document involving your injury.
- Do not give a recorded statement to the carrier without counsel.
- Call Siddons Law Firm for a free case review.
Why Siddons Law Firm
We handle workers’ compensation claims across PA, NJ, NY, and MD. We know the judges, the defense firms, and the repeat IME doctors in each jurisdiction. Our contingency-fee structure means you pay nothing unless we recover for you. Contact us for a free consultation.