Undocumented Workers Have Legal Rights
Undocumented workers in New York make invaluable contributions to the construction industry, and the law is designed to protect them when they are injured on the job. If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, you have the right to compensation, regardless of your immigration status. By working with an experienced attorney, you can ensure that your rights are protected, and you can receive the compensation you deserve to recover and move forward.
Workers’ Compensation: Protection for All Workers
New York law guarantees that all workers, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if they are injured on the job. Workers’ compensation is a system that provides medical treatment and financial compensation to workers who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses.
At THE NEW YORK INJURY LAW FIRM PLLC, we are committed to advocating for all workers, including undocumented immigrants, who have been injured in construction accidents.
Compensation Rights for All Workers, Regardless of Immigration Status
- Medical Coverage: If you are injured on a construction site, your workers’ compensation benefits will cover the costs of medical care needed for treatment. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing care related to the injury.
- Disability Benefits: If you are unable to work due to your injury, workers’ compensation can provide temporary disability benefits that replace a portion of your lost wages. In some cases, permanent disability benefits may be available if your injury results in long-term or permanent impairments.
- No Requirement for Social Security Number: A significant advantage of workers’ compensation is that you do not need to have a Social Security number or legal immigration status to be eligible for benefits. Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance will cover your medical expenses and lost wages as long as the injury is work-related.
- No Fear of Deportation: Your immigration status will not impact your ability to access workers’ compensation benefits. New York law ensures that your claim will be handled confidentially and does not involve any investigation into your immigration status. Employers cannot retaliate or refuse benefits based on your status.
Why You Should Seek Legal Help if You’re Injured as an Undocumented Worker
While the law provides strong protections for undocumented workers, navigating the legal process after a construction injury can be complex. Here’s why it’s crucial to hire a knowledgeable personal injury or workers’ compensation attorney:
Guidance Through the Legal Process
An experienced attorney will help you understand your rights, whether you need to file a workers’ compensation claim or pursue a third-party lawsuit. They will guide you through the paperwork, deadlines, and procedures to ensure you don’t miss any crucial steps.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Lawyers who specialize in construction injuries know how to calculate the full value of your claim, including lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. They will work to maximize the compensation you receive.
No Need for Legal Status
Your attorney will ensure that your immigration status does not impact your claim or the way your case is handled. They will protect your confidentiality and make sure your case is treated with respect and dignity.
Protection Against Employer Retaliation
An attorney can also protect you from any retaliatory actions by your employer or contractor, ensuring that your rights are upheld throughout the process.
Get Legal Help Today: Contact Our Law Firm for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, your immigration status won’t affect your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Contact THE NEW YORK INJURY LAW FIRM PLLC for a free consultation, and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Our legal services cover all labor law accidents throughout New York. This includes Kings County, Queens County, New York County, Suffolk County, Nassau County, Bronx County, Westchester County, Richmond County, and all other counties across the state.