Workers' Compensation For Injured Joiners in New York City
New York would not be what it is today without the craftsmanship of woodworkers. However, woodworking can be a dangerous and physically demanding profession. Workshops and construction sites contain many potential hazards, and it is not uncommon for accidents to occur.
In the construction industry, joinery and carpentry are the two main trades that handle wood. To a layperson, these trades can appear similar at first, but it is important to note their differences to understand the unique risks of each trade.
Joiners typically work in a workshop to join wood, while carpenters are usually involved in constructing the elements of a building on-site. For example, joiners will construct items such as windows, doors, stairs, and furniture at a bench in a workshop and pass these on to a carpenter to install on-site.
The work injury attorneys at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP have decades of experience handling workers’ compensation claims in New York. We understand the intricacies of the joinery trade and have delivered successful outcomes to countless clients throughout the years. If you are a joiner who has been injured at work, give us a call at (212) 986-7353 for a free consultation.
Joiner Accidents and Injuries
Common accidents and injuries experienced by joiners include:
- Accidental wounds, lacerations, and amputations
- Eye injuries
- Dust inhalation
- Joint injuries
- Ergonomic injuries resulting from repetitive movements
If you are an employee and have experienced any of the above from your work, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Even if you are at fault, the same benefits may apply. In the event of an accident resulting from an equipment malfunction, you may also be able to bring a product liability case against the manufacturer.
It is important to note that workers’ compensation is only available to employees and not independent contractors. However, this classification is often more complicated than it appears, and employers sometimes misclassify employees as independent contractors.
This is an illegal practice but is sometimes utilized by employers to avoid paying benefits to workers. If you suspect that you have been misclassified, an experienced lawyer may be able to help you depending on the circumstances of your case.
Joiners who are independent contractors can still access benefits if they have purchased their own workers’ compensation insurance. Regardless of whether they have workers’ comp insurance, it may be possible to sue for additional compensation if the joiner’s injury was caused by a negligent third party.
Contact an Experienced NYC Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today
If you have been injured at work, it is essential to get in touch with a knowledgeable New York City workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. The process of filing a claim involves specific forms and strictly enforced deadlines. Sometimes, employers and insurance companies can be difficult and look for reasons to deny your claim. For example, an employer may try to argue that your ergonomic injury was unrelated to your duties at work.
In short, it can be a confusing and stressful time, especially when you are doing your best to recover from an injury. An attorney can advise you every step of the way and make sure you maximize the compensation you receive for your injury.
Joiners do important work and deserve to be compensated for any injuries they suffer in the workplace. Call us at (212) 986-7353 today and let us handle your case.