If you sustain a serious injury on the job and you want to pursue workers’ compensation benefits, there are certain steps you should take to qualify. Since even minor mistakes could prohibit you from collecting compensation, you should talk to a personal injury attorney about your case as soon as possible. If you’re looking for lawyers who practice both personal injury law and employment law in Middletown, NY, turn to MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C.

Below, their experienced team shares the steps you should take immediately following your accident.

Personal Injury Attorneys Share 3 Steps to Take After Sustaining a Work Injury

1. Report the Injury to Your Employer

After your condition has stabilized, you need to report the injury to your employer in writing. According to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board, you have just 30 days to notify your employer of the accident.

2. File a Claim

You should file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits as soon as possible. In the state of New York, you must file your claim within two years of the incident. You can file the Employee Claim (C-3) form online, via mail, or in person. The fastest way to file is online, and a personal injury attorney can help you complete the application in a timely fashion to prevent any unnecessary delays.

3. Explore Other Avenues of Compensation

Fault does not play a role in eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. If someone else was responsible for your injuries, you may have additional avenues for pursuing compensation. An attorney will help you explore your options to ensure you secure the benefits you need to continue supporting your family.

If you have questions about filing for workers’ compensation benefits, turn to MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. To learn more about their additional areas of practice, including DWI law and elder law, check out their website. You can also call (845) 343-3000 to schedule an initial consultation with a personal injury attorney, and connect with the law firm on Facebook.