New York City Work Accident Lawyers

Are You in Need of a Work Accident Lawyer in New York City?

If you were hurt on the job, you are probably entitled to receive workers’ compensation payments, which provide partial wage replacement, medical coverage, and other benefits. You could also be eligible to receive additional benefits through a third-party lawsuit in cases where someone other than your employer contributed to the accident.

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Recent Case Results

^$5.95 Million Union Bridge Painter Fell from Steel Support Beam

^$3.2 Million Dock Worker Injured by Temporary Metal Staircase

^$3.1 Million Paralyzed Laborer

^$3.1 Million Baggage Handler Injured by Airplane Striking Truck

View More Case Results

Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP is one of the most prominent work accident law firms in New York City, with an impressive track record of getting considerable verdicts and settlements for our clients.

You may need a New York City work accident lawyer if:

Your claim has been denied
Your benefits were reduced or stopped
Your employer disputes that your injury is work-related
You suffered a serious or permanent injury
A third party may be responsible for your accident

Why Choose Us Over Other Work Accident Lawyers Attorneys in NYC

infographic construction accident safety

Insurance carriers frequently dispute claims, challenge the severity of injuries, or argue that workers can return to their jobs sooner than medical evidence supports. When you hire WRSMH, you are choosing a firm known for meticulous preparation, trial readiness, and a long history of successfully representing injured New York workers.

Here’s why so many people have come to trust our firm:

Over 50 years of representing injured New Yorkers – Decades of courtroom-focused advocacy across NYC.
More than $2 billion recovered for clients – A record of substantial results in serious injury cases.
Recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report – National recognition for professional excellence.
Avvo rating of 10.0/10.0 Superb – Reflecting strong credentials and client satisfaction.
Numerous attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers – Honored based on peer reviews and independent research.
Attorneys recognized by the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum – Reflecting a history of significant verdicts and settlements.

Notable Case Results

Reasons to See a NYC Work Accident Lawyer Right Away

New York workers’ compensation law has strict deadlines for reporting injuries and filing claims. Failing to meet these deadlines can jeopardize your benefits. Early legal guidance often prevents delays and strengthens your position if disputes arise later in the process

Speaking with a lawyer immediately can help you:

Ensure your injury is properly documented
File the correct forms with the New York Workers’ Compensation Board
Protect yourself from insurance tactics designed to limit benefits
Determine whether a third-party lawsuit may be available

Injured on the Job? We’re Here to Help

Call for a free consultation today: (212) 986-7353.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees injured in the course of their employment. In most cases, employees do not need to prove that their employer was negligent. Instead, if the injury occurred while performing job-related duties, the worker may qualify for benefits.

In exchange for receiving workers’ compensation benefits, employees generally cannot sue their employer directly for negligence. But other parties may still be held accountable through separate legal claims.

Benefits Available to Injured Workers in New York

Under New York law, workers’ compensation benefits may include:

Coverage for necessary medical treatment
Partial wage replacement benefits
Compensation for permanent impairments
Vocational rehabilitation services

These benefits are intended to help injured workers recover physically and financially. It’s important to remember that insurance carrier may scrutinizes claims, looking for reasons to reject them. That’s why it’s so important to have experienced legal representation.

What to Do After a Work Accident in New York

If you are injured at work, you should:

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
Seek medical treatment from an authorized provider.
File a workers’ compensation claim with the appropriate state agency.

If your claim is disputed, hearings may be scheduled before a workers’ compensation law judge. Evidence, medical testimony, and documentation may be presented to determine your eligibility for benefits. Our NYC personal injury attorneys are prepared to advocate for you at every stage of this process.

How Do I Qualify for Workers' Compensation?

Most employees in New York are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. You may qualify if:

You are an employee (not an independent contractor)
Your injury occurred while performing job-related duties
You reported the injury within required time limits
You sought appropriate medical care

Certain categories of workers, such as independent contractors or volunteers, may not be covered under standard workers’ compensation policies. However, misclassification of employees is common, and an attorney can help determine your status.

Were You Denied Workers’ Comp?

We can help. Don’t give up if your claim was denied or delayed. Your attorney can challenge unfair decisions and advocate for you. Call (212) 986-7353 to learn more today.

Injuries That New York Workers’ Compensation Insurance Covers

Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of injuries and occupational illnesses, including:

Repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome
Broken bones
Head and brain injuries
Closed head injuries
Penetrating (open) head injuries
Eye injuries
Hearing loss
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Back, neck, and spine injuries

What Causes Workplace Injuries

Workplace accidents occur in many industries throughout New York City. Construction sites, in particular, present serious risks due to scaffolding, ladders, heavy equipment, and falling debris. Our firm has extensive experience handling construction accident claims throughout NYC. Frequent causes include:

Construction accidents
Machinery accidents
Slip, trip, and fall accidents
Exposure to chemicals or chemical fumes
Heavy lifting accidents
Assaults due to negligent security
Work-related motor vehicle accidents

What Is a Third-Party Lawsuit?

While workers’ compensation prevents most lawsuits against employers, injured workers may have the right to file a third-party lawsuit against another responsible party. These claims can significantly increase the total compensation available to an injured worker.

A third-party claim allows injured workers to seek additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits. Unlike workers’ compensation, a third-party lawsuit may include damages for:

Full lost wages
Future loss of income
Pain and suffering
Long-term assisted living care

Third Parties Who May Be Liable for Your Injuries

Depending on the circumstances of your accident, liable third parties may include:

Property owners
General contractors or subcontractors
Equipment manufacturers
Maintenance companies
Security companies
Drivers of other vehicles

For example, if a construction worker is injured due to defective scaffolding, the manufacturer or property owner may be liable. If a delivery driver is struck by another motorist, the at-fault driver may be responsible for additional damages.

Case Results

$11.76 Million Verdict - Labor Law Construction Accident with Single-Level Lumbar Fusion

Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, attorney Frank J. Lombardo secured an $11.76 million verdict for a Union Local No. 1 journeyman plumber in Queens County, who suffered serious injuries from a Labor Law construction accident at 30 Rockefeller Center. The plaintiff was struck by a falling 4-inch copper pipe and a bucket of tools, leading to a herniated disc and a knee injury that required multiple surgeries. Despite the defendants' insurer refusing to settle and downplaying the injuries by highlighting the plaintiff’s previous car accidents, Frank demonstrated that the injuries sustained were new and severe, impacting the plaintiff’s ability to work. The jury awarded the plaintiff and his wife substantial compensation for pain, suffering, lost earnings, medical expenses, and loss of services, totaling $11,756,810.00.

$6.5 Million Settlement - Carpenter Injured at Jobsite

Attorney David M. Hoffman of Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP secured a $6,500,000 settlement for a 50-year-old construction worker who suffered severe injuries after a fall from a height at a jobsite. The accident occurred while he was working on an elevated section of a Doka form work wall during the Rehab of Kew Gardens Interchange project at the Van Wyck Expressway in Queens. The plaintiff fell approximately 25 feet due to the defendants' failure to provide adequate safety equipment or an alternative such as a crane or boom lift. As a result, he sustained significant trauma, including intracranial injuries, fractures, and facial and knee damage requiring surgeries, leading to a traumatic brain injury and cognitive deficits. The defendants contended that the worker was given a proper safety harness but did not use it correctly.

What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

My lawyer is the best of the best!!! - Lizzette Medina (5-Star Google Review)

My lawyer is the best of the best!!! He has been so consistent working hard on my case and has been nonstop, making sure everything is getting done. Everyone I have spoken to in the office has been a pleasure to work with. But my attorney has made this rough journey smooth as possible. Anytime I had a question an issue or a doubt, he was just one phone call away. I will forever be grateful to WRSMH for their hard work and dedication. I will refer everyone I know.

They were very professional in handling my case-Luis Olivares (5-Star Google Review)

Our experience with this law firm was very very very very good. They took care of all my needs and they were very professional in handling my case and I was happy with my reward. I would like to encourage anyone who might need a good law firm to use them.

Speak With a Trusted Work Accident Lawyer in NYC

A serious work injury can affect your health, your finances, and your family’s stability. Insurance companies are private businesses that are generally more concerned with minimizing settlement offers than protecting injured workers.

At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we prepare every case for trial, and we know how to pursue the maximum compensation available under the law.

Call (212) 986-7353 for a free consultation. Let our New York City work accident lawyers review your case, explain your rights, and begin protecting your future today.

Other Locations We Serve in New York

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a workplace accident in New York City?

You should report the injury to your employer as soon as possible and seek medical treatment from an authorized provider. Prompt reporting creates an official record and helps protect your right to benefits. After receiving medical care, you should file a claim with the New York Workers’ Compensation Board. Speaking with a work accident lawyer early can help you avoid mistakes that could harm your claim.

Can I choose my own doctor for a workers’ compensation claim?

In most cases, you must seek treatment from a medical provider authorized by the New York Workers’ Compensation Board. Failing to do so may delay or jeopardize your benefits. An experienced attorney can help ensure you are seeing the proper providers and that your injuries are properly documented.

What benefits can I receive through workers’ compensation?

Workers’ compensation may cover necessary medical treatment and provide partial wage replacement benefits if you are unable to work. In cases involving permanent impairment, additional benefits may be available. The amount and duration of benefits depend on the severity of your injury and your ability to return to work.

Can I sue my employer for a workplace injury?

In most situations, workers’ compensation prevents employees from suing their employers directly for negligence. But you may have the right to file a third-party lawsuit against another responsible party, such as a property owner, contractor, or equipment manufacturer. A third-party claim may allow you to pursue additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits.

What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you have the right to challenge that decision. Hearings may be scheduled before a workers’ compensation law judge, where medical evidence and testimony can be presented. Having a knowledgeable work accident lawyer represent you during this process can significantly improve your chances of success.

What if my employer says my injury is not work-related?

Insurance carriers and employers sometimes dispute whether an injury occurred in the course of employment. Medical records, witness statements, and other documentation can help establish that your injury is work-related. An attorney can gather and present the necessary evidence to support your claim.

What types of workplace injuries are covered under workers’ compensation?

Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of injuries, including broken bones, head and brain injuries, back and spine injuries, repetitive stress injuries, hearing loss, and occupational illnesses. Psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder may also be covered in certain situations. Coverage depends on whether the injury arose out of and in the course of employment.

Why should I hire Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP for my work accident case?

Our firm has represented injured New Yorkers for over 50 years and recovered more than $2 billion for our clients. We prepare every case with the expectation that it may need to be presented before a jury, which strengthens our position from the start. If you were injured on the job in New York City, call (212) 986-7353 for a free consultation and let our team begin protecting your rights.

Meet Our New York City Work Accident Attorneys

Kenneth J. Halperin

Kenneth J. Halperin is a Partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. With decades of experience representing injured New Yorkers, Ken focuses on serious construction accidents, workplace injuries, motor vehicle collisions, premises liability claims, and other catastrophic injury cases. Ken works closely with clients to document the full extent of their damages, including pain and suffering, lost wages, pension and annuity losses, and future medical needs.

Philip Russotti

Philip Russotti is a founding Partner of Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin. Over the course of his distinguished career, Phil has tried virtually every type of civil case, including medical malpractice, construction accidents, products liability, premises liability, police misconduct cases, and motor vehicle collisions. Known for his courtroom presence and comprehensive preparation, he believes that when he stands before a jury, no one in the courtroom should be more prepared or more committed to the case.

Clifford H. Shapiro

Clifford H. Shapiro is a Partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. With decades of experience handling complex personal injury matters, Cliff is widely respected for his strategic approach and strength in negotiation. While he is fully prepared to try cases when necessary, Clifford is particularly known for his ability to secure substantial settlements through meticulous preparation and aggressive advocacy.

Bryce Moses

Bryce Moses is a Partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP and a seasoned trial attorney who advocates for seriously injured individuals throughout New York. Bryce has successfully fought for clients against municipalities, large corporations, and powerful institutions, obtaining multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in construction accident, workplace injury, truck accident, motor vehicle, premises liability, and wrongful death cases.