The COVID-19 coronavirus is an emerging and constantly evolving public health crisis. In March 2020, when the virus showed up and began to take root in the United States, New York City and its surrounding areas were some of the places where the bug hit hardest, triggering shutdowns of schools, restaurants, and some businesses.
Though much is still unknown about COVID-19, one thing is certain: it's taking a toll on businesses and workers across the country. While some workers find themselves suddenly unemployed, others are working tirelessly on the front lines in the fight against the coronavirus. Sadly, some of these workers may end up coming down with the virus themselves.
Receiving Workers' Compensation Benefits for Coronavirus
If you contracted the virus at work doing something that was related to the course and scope of your employment, you could potentially be entitled to workers' compensation benefits—if you can prove the illness was directly related to your occupation. For example, doctors, nurses, home health aides, and other medical personnel who contracted COVID-19 after caring for infected patients may have grounds for a New York workers' compensation claim. The New York Times identified workers with the greatest coronavirus risk as home health aides, CNAs, nurses, doctors, police officers, paramedics, firefighters, teachers, cashiers, and janitors due to the fact that they are frequently in close proximity with a large number of other people.
If you contracted COVID-19 in the workplace or while on a business trip, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits such as medical treatment, lost wages, and disability payments. If your loved one was a front line worker who contracted the virus on the job and succumbed to it, your family may be entitled to workers' compensation death benefits.
Our Highly-Skilled Attorneys Can Advise You in This Difficult and Uncertain Time
We live in uncertain times, which is why you need a reputable and aggressive legal advocate who can help you understand your rights and options. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
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