Auto Accidents On The Job? We’ll Explain Your Rights
If you were injured in a car accident while performing your job duties, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits as well as additional compensation from a third party. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, our experienced New York workers’ compensation lawyers are dedicated to helping injured workers secure the benefits and compensation they deserve. Navigating the legal complexities of a work-related car accident can be challenging, but we are here to advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the full financial support needed for your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
When Can You Seek Compensation for a Car Accident on the Job?
If you’ve been injured in a work-related vehicle collision while driving through Manhattan’s busy streets or making deliveries across the boroughs, you may be entitled to both workers’ compensation benefits and additional compensation through a third-party claim. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we help New York workers understand their rights and pursue the full compensation they deserve.
You can seek compensation when the accident occurs:
- During your regular commute between job sites
- While making deliveries or transporting work materials
- When traveling to meet clients or attend business meetings
- During work-related errands, like picking up supplies
- In company vehicles or personal vehicles used for work purposes
For instance, if you’re a salesperson injured while driving to meet a client in Queens, or a construction worker hurt while transporting equipment to a job site near the Brooklyn Bridge, you’re likely eligible for benefits. Even if you were partially at fault, New York’s workers’ compensation system may still provide coverage.
However, navigating the intersection of workers’ compensation and auto accident claims in New York City requires careful consideration of multiple legal frameworks. Our attorneys regularly handle cases involving injuries sustained on the BQE, FDR Drive, and other major thoroughfares throughout the five boroughs. We understand how to maximize your recovery by pursuing all available sources of compensation, including:
- Workers’ compensation benefits
- No-fault insurance benefits
- Third-party personal injury claims
- Social Security Disability benefits when applicable
Don’t let insurance companies minimize your claim after an accident on the Cross Bronx Expressway or while making deliveries in busy Midtown. With decades of experience serving injured workers across New York City, our legal team knows how to build strong cases that account for all aspects of your damages – from immediate medical needs to long-term care requirements.
If you’ve been hurt in a work-related vehicle accident anywhere in the Greater New York area, contact our office for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case and explain your options for seeking the compensation you need to recover.
Who May Be Held Liable for a Car Accident on the Job?
When you’re involved in a work-related car accident in New York City, multiple parties may share liability for your injuries. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we thoroughly investigate each case to identify all potentially responsible parties.
Your Employer
If you were driving for work purposes – whether delivering packages in Staten Island or heading to a client meeting in Lower Manhattan – your employer may be responsible through the workers’ compensation system. This applies regardless of who caused the accident, providing essential coverage for medical care and lost wages.
Other Drivers
When another motorist’s negligence causes your work-related accident on busy streets like Northern Boulevard in Queens or Avenue of the Americas in Manhattan, they may be held liable through a third-party claim. This could provide additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits.
Vehicle Manufacturers
If a defective vehicle component contributed to your accident – such as faulty brakes or steering systems – the manufacturer may bear responsibility. Our firm investigates whether equipment failure played a role in accidents on high-traffic routes like the Long Island Expressway or Grand Central Parkway.
Maintenance Companies
Companies responsible for maintaining commercial vehicles may be liable if poor maintenance led to your accident. This is particularly relevant for workers operating commercial trucks and delivery vehicles throughout the five boroughs.
Government Entities
In cases involving hazardous road conditions – like unmarked construction on the Belt Parkway or poorly maintained streets in the Bronx – government agencies responsible for road maintenance may share liability. However, claims against government entities have strict filing deadlines and requirements.
Property Owners
Sometimes, private property owners may be liable if dangerous conditions on their property contributed to your work-related accident, such as poorly maintained parking lots or loading zones in commercial areas like the Garment District.
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we understand the complexity of work-related vehicle accidents in New York City. Our attorneys carefully examine every aspect of your case to pursue compensation from all responsible parties, ensuring you receive the maximum recovery possible for your injuries.
If you’ve been injured in a work-related car accident, contact our office to discuss your case. We’ll help you understand your rights and develop a strategy to hold all liable parties accountable.
Workers’ Comp and Auto Accidents While Working
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we understand the complexities of cases involving both workers’ compensation and auto accident claims. When you’re injured in a vehicle accident while working, you may be entitled to pursue multiple forms of compensation through different legal channels.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation provides essential benefits regardless of who caused the accident, including:
- Medical treatment coverage
- Lost wage replacement
- Disability benefits
- Rehabilitation services
- Death benefits for surviving family members
No-Fault Insurance Claims
New York’s no-fault insurance system provides additional coverage for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost earnings
- Out-of-pocket costs
- Essential services
Third-Party Personal Injury Claims
Unlike standard workers’ compensation claims, third-party lawsuits allow you to seek compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Future lost earnings
- Additional damages not covered by workers’ comp
Coordinating Multiple Claims
Our attorneys carefully coordinate these different claims to maximize your total compensation while ensuring compliance with all legal requirements. We handle:
- Proper filing sequences
- Timeline management
- Benefit coordination
- Lien resolution
- Settlement negotiations
Understanding the interplay between these different types of claims is crucial for securing full compensation. Workers’ compensation may have a lien on your third-party settlement, and certain benefits might offset others. Our legal team manages these complexities while protecting your interests throughout the process.
If you’ve been injured in a work-related vehicle accident, contact our firm for a comprehensive evaluation of your case. We’ll explain your rights and help you pursue all available sources of compensation for your injuries.
How a Car Accident on the Job Lawyer Can Help
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, our workers’ compensation lawyers and personal injury lawyers work together to protect your rights after a work-related vehicle accident. By combining our knowledge of both practice areas, we provide comprehensive legal representation that addresses all aspects of your case.
Investigation and Evidence Collection
Our legal team:
- Gathers accident reports and witness statements
- Obtains surveillance footage when available
- Collects medical records and documentation
- Reviews employment records and policies
- Consults with accident reconstruction professionals
- Documents all accident-related expenses
Claims Management
As both workers’ compensation lawyers and personal injury lawyers, we:
- File all necessary claims within required deadlines
- Handle communication with insurance companies
- Coordinate between different insurance carriers
- Ensure proper documentation for all claims
- Monitor your medical treatment progress
- Track all case-related expenses
Benefits and Compensation
We help secure:
- Maximum workers’ compensation benefits
- Full no-fault insurance benefits
- Fair compensation from third-party claims
- Additional available benefits
- Future medical costs coverage
- Lost earning potential compensation
Insurance Company Negotiations
Our attorneys:
- Counter lowball settlement offers
- Present compelling evidence of liability
- Document the full extent of your damages
- Protect you from predatory insurance tactics
- Negotiate with multiple insurance carriers
- Ensure fair treatment of your claims
Legal Protection
We safeguard your rights by:
- Meeting all filing deadlines
- Following proper legal procedures
- Protecting your interests in settlement negotiations
- Preparing your case for trial if necessary
- Advising you on your legal options
- Ensuring compliance with all relevant laws
By choosing Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, you get the advantage of having both workers’ compensation lawyers and personal injury lawyers working together on your case. This comprehensive approach helps ensure you receive the maximum compensation available under all applicable laws.
Contact our office today to discuss your work-related car accident case. Our experienced legal team will evaluate your situation and explain how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
How Can I Prove I Was Working When the Car Accident Happened?
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we help clients gather and present compelling evidence to establish that their accident occurred within the scope of employment. Here’s what we look for to build a strong case:
- Employment Documentation: We collect:
- Work schedules and time cards
- Pay stubs showing you were on the clock
- Email or text communications with supervisors
- Work orders or delivery receipts
- GPS records from company vehicles
- Digital timestamps from work-related applications
- Company phone records
- Travel Records: We help establish your work-related travel through:
- Mileage logs and reimbursement forms
- Business meeting calendars
- Client appointment confirmations
- Parking receipts from work locations
- EZ-Pass or toll records
- Rideshare or delivery app records
- Company credit card statements
- Witness Statements: We obtain statements from:
- Coworkers who knew your schedule
- Supervisors who assigned your tasks
- Clients expecting your visit
- Witnesses to the accident
- First responders at the scene
- Others who can verify your work duties
- Company Policies: We review:
- Job descriptions outlining travel requirements
- Company vehicle usage policies
- Remote work agreements
- Travel reimbursement policies
- Business expense guidelines
- Employee handbooks
Even if some documentation is missing, don’t assume you can’t prove your case. Our attorneys know how to piece together various forms of evidence to establish that your accident occurred during work-related activities. We understand what insurance companies and workers’ compensation boards look for when evaluating claims.
Contact Our Car Accident on the Job Lawyers in New York City
If you’ve been injured in a work-related car accident, don’t navigate the complex legal process alone. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, our workers’ compensation lawyers and personal injury lawyers have helped countless New York workers secure the compensation they deserve. We understand the unique challenges of cases involving both workers’ compensation and auto accident claims, and we’re committed to protecting your rights every step of the way. Contact our office today at 212-233-6528 for a free consultation, or fill out our online form to discuss your case. Let us put our decades of experience to work for you while you focus on your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions: Car Accidents on the Job
1. Am I eligible for workers’ compensation if I’m injured in a car accident while working?
Yes. If you were involved in a car accident while performing work-related duties—such as making deliveries, traveling between job sites, or running errands for your employer—you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical expenses and lost wages.
2. What types of compensation can I receive after a work-related car accident?
You may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which include coverage for medical treatment, lost wages, and disability benefits. Additionally, if a third party (such as another driver) caused the accident, you might also be able to pursue a personal injury claim for additional compensation like pain and suffering.
3. What should I do if I’m in a car accident while working?
If you’re involved in a work-related car accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible.
- Document the scene and gather evidence, including photos and witness contact information.
- Contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.
4. Can I still file for workers’ compensation if I was at fault for the car accident?
Yes. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you are generally entitled to benefits regardless of who caused the accident, as long as you were performing work-related duties at the time.
5. What if my employer disputes my claim?
If your employer or their insurance company denies or disputes your workers’ compensation claim, you have the right to appeal the decision. Our attorneys at Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman can assist you in building a strong case and representing you throughout the appeals process.
6. How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim after a car accident?
In New York, you generally have 30 days to notify your employer of the accident and two years to file a formal workers’ compensation claim. It’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and avoid missing critical deadlines.
7. Why should I hire a lawyer for a work-related car accident?
A skilled workers’ compensation lawyer can ensure your claim is filed correctly, advocate for the maximum benefits, and explore additional legal options if a third party was involved. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we fight to protect injured workers and secure the compensation they deserve.
If you have additional questions or need assistance with your claim, contact us today for a free consultation.