When you are injured on the job, the last thing you want to worry about is battling with insurance companies or employment agencies for what's rightfully yours. Rochester's Vincent Criscuolo & Associates is proud to fight for workers' rights and is here to help as you start the claim process.

Knowing your rights will bring you peace of mind, and their workers comp attorneys would like to offer their knowledge during this often stressful process. Here are the first steps involved with filing a workers' compensation claim:

1. Obtaining necessary medical treatment is first and foremost: With the exception of emergency treatment, you must find a treating doctor that's authorized by the Workers' Compensation Board. According to the New York State (NYS) Workers' Compensation Board, "You can find out more information about authorized providers and locate authorized providers in the Injured Workers or Health Care Providers sections of this website or by calling 1-800-781-2362."
2. Make sure your doctor completes necessary forms within 48 hours: Your health provider must complete the Doctor's Initial Report (C-4) and send it to your District Office. Aren't sure what district you're in? You can find yours here on the NYS Workers' Compensation Board website. 
3. Notify your employer in writing within 30 days: Be sure to keep a copy of the letter for your files.
4. Notify your District Office and insurance company within 10 days: Report the injury to your company's workers compensation insurance company and to your appropriate District Office.
5. File an official claim with your District Office within two years: You must file a claim with your Board District Office using the Employee Claim (C-3) form. This and all other forms can be found here on the NYS Workers' Compensation Board website. 

Even with the information above, these are just the first steps; you will inevitably have more questions. The experienced team of workers comp lawyers at Vincent Criscuolo & Associates is here to answer all your questions and lead you through the claim process. Visit them online to learn more about the worker's compensation claim process and call (585) 232-3240 to schedule a free consultation.