Meet Your Workplace Injury Attorneys in NYC
At Ajlouny Injury Law, we know that seeking compensation benefits and dealing with an injury or illness after an accident can feel overwhelming and uncertain. Our goal is to not only provide skilled legal representation but also to offer the support and guidance you need to move forward with confidence.
Here’s a closer look at the dedicated attorneys who will be by your side every step of the way:
Paul Ajlouny
Paul Ajlouny is a highly respected New York City personal injury lawyer based in Brooklyn, who is known throughout New York State for his sharp legal acumen and compassionate approach. After graduating from St. John’s University, Paul gained significant experience at the prestigious Daniel Galinson firm before founding Ajlouny Injury Law.
Over the course of his career, Paul Ajlouny has helped secure over $150 million in settlements for his clients. His client-first philosophy and relentless pursuit of justice have earned him a strong reputation in the legal community.
Michael Levitz
Michael Levitz brings a unique perspective to personal injury law, combining his legal expertise with the discipline and strategy he developed as a competitive athlete. A graduate of Hofstra University’s Maurice A. Deane School of Law, Michael’s strong negotiation skills and deep commitment to his clients have made him a standout in his field.
Recognized as one of the Top 40 National Trial Lawyers under 40 and honored as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine, Michael’s focus is always on achieving the best possible outcomes for those he represents.
Together, Paul Ajlouny and Michael Levitz provide the compassionate, expert legal counsel you need during difficult times, and will ensure that your case is handled with care and determination.
First Steps New York Workers Should Take After a Workplace Accident
If you've been injured at work, here are the critical steps you should take right away to protect your health and legal rights before seeking a personal injury claim:
- Contact a workplace accident attorney: Get professional advice from our team right away to understand your rights and options under New York law.
- Notify your employer: Report your injury to your supervisor as soon as possible to make sure the incident is documented.
- File a report: Submit a formal injury report to your employer to create an official record.
- Seek medical attention: Obtain immediate medical care to make sure your condition is properly documented, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Follow up with your doctor: Keep up with all medical appointments to demonstrate the ongoing impact of your injury, and keep all medical records and bills.
- File for workers' compensation: Start your claim to receive benefits such as medical coverage and lost wages.
- Avoid signing anything without legal advice: Don’t sign documents from your employer or their insurance company before first consulting an attorney.
- Keep records: Document everything related to your injury, including medical records, accident details, the injury’s ongoing impact on your life, and communications with your employer.
Deadlines to File an Injured Worker
In New York, injured workers typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a workers' compensation claim, and missing this deadline can result in losing your right to benefits. Additionally, you must notify your employer of the injury within 30 days of the incident.
If you fail to act within these timeframes, you may jeopardize your claim. It's a good idea to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure all paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
Gathering Evidence For A Personal Injury Lawsuit
Gathering evidence can feel overwhelming when you’re already dealing with the physical and emotional effects of an accident, but it is vital to building a strong case.
Key pieces of evidence that you’ll need to collect include:
- Medical records
- Photos of the scene and any visible injuries
- Witness statements
- Police reports
This documentation can help prove the extent of your injuries, establish liability, and strengthen your claim.
We understand that this process can be difficult, especially when you're focusing on recovery. That’s why we're here to take the burden off your shoulders.
We’ll handle the evidence collection while you concentrate on healing.
What Can I Expect to Pay?
At our firm, we work on a contingency fee model, meaning you won’t pay any upfront legal fees. Instead, we only get paid if we win your case.
Our fee is a percentage of the compensation you receive, so there are no out-of-pocket expenses for you. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about the cost.
If you have questions about our fees or want to learn more about the contingency model, we're happy to explain in detail and answer any questions during your free consultation.
Why Choose Us Over Other New York Workplace Injury Lawyers?
Choosing the right lawyer for your workplace injury case can make all the difference, and we are confident that we’re the right choice for you.
Our team is committed to understanding your unique situation and providing the personalized support you need. We don’t just handle cases; we stand by you every step of the way.
With our extensive experience in workplace injury claims, we know how to navigate the legal system effectively and get you the results you deserve. We focus on thorough investigations, strong negotiations, and clear communication throughout the process.
Our goal is to lift the burden from your shoulders so you can concentrate on getting better. Let us take care of the hard work while you focus on your recovery.
How workers’ compensation works in New York
In New York, if you're injured on the job, you have two immediate responsibilities.:
- First: Seek medical attention promptly—whether at a hospital, clinic, or through your primary care provider.
- Second: Notify your supervisor or manager as soon as possible, no later than 30 days after the incident.
Your employer will then report the injury to their workers' compensation insurance carrier and the state's Workers' Compensation Board (WCB). It's important to file Form C-3 (Employee's Claim for Compensation) with the WCB within two years of the accident or the discovery of a related medical condition.
Strict deadlines apply, and errors in the form can jeopardize your ability to secure compensation. An experienced workers' compensation lawyer can help by assisting with completing forms, making sure all parties fulfill their obligations, and advocating on your behalf if disputes arise.
Appealing a decision from the workers’ compensation board
Either side can request a review of the decision within 30 days by submitting a written request to the Board. A panel of three Board Members will look over the case and may affirm, change, or reverse the decision, or send it back for further review.
If the panel does not unanimously agree, any party can request a full Board review in writing. At the same time, you can appeal to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division.
The full Board will either affirm, modify, or overturn the decision. If the panel’s decision is unanimous, you can still request a full Board review, but it’s up to the Board to accept or deny this request, and if it is accepted, a new decision will be issued.
Do I have a good chance of winning my appeal?
The success of your appeal depends on several factors, such as the evidence presented, whether all deadlines were met, and whether you can prove that the original decision was made in error.
An experienced workers' compensation attorney can help assess your case, guide you through the appeals process, and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
The Exclusive Remedy Rule Explained
The Exclusive Remedy Rule is a legal principle within workers' compensation law designed to limit the types of claims employees can bring against their employers for workplace injuries.
The rule states that workers' compensation is typically the sole legal remedy available to employees for injuries sustained in the course of their employment. This means that, in most cases, employees cannot pursue additional personal injury lawsuits against their employers for work-related injuries.
Exceptions to the Rule
While the Exclusive Remedy Rule generally restricts lawsuits against employers, there are important exceptions:
- Third-Party Claims: If a workplace injury is caused by the negligence of someone other than the employer, the injured worker may be able to file a lawsuit against that third party. Responsible third parties could include manufacturers of defective equipment, for example.
- Intentional Harm: If an employer intentionally causes harm to an employee, the injured worker may have grounds to pursue a lawsuit outside of the workers' compensation system. The bar for proving intentional harm can be quite high, so you’ll need to prove that the employer maliciously intended to cause harm, and was not just behaving recklessly or negligently.
- Independent Contractors: If an independent contractor is injured, they might not be covered under the employer's workers' compensation policy, potentially allowing for other legal recourse.
Implications for Employees
For employees, the Exclusive Remedy Rule simplifies the process of obtaining compensation for workplace injuries but also limits the types of claims they can bring directly against their employers.
It’s important for workers to understand their rights under the workers' compensation system and consider legal advice, especially if their case involves exceptions or other complicating factors.
We encourage New York City workers to get in touch with our experts to ensure they receive the maximum compensation possible.
General Information on Workplace Accidents in NYC
Workplace accidents in NYC can affect individuals across various industries and job roles. These incidents may range from minor injuries to severe accidents that create significant impacts on your life and livelihood.
Whether it’s a slip, trip, fall, or a more serious incident like exposure to harmful chemicals, addressing workplace injuries involves a combination of legal, medical, and practical considerations.
If you or a loved one has experienced a workplace accident, getting the right guidance and support is critical for managing the situation effectively.
Common workplace injuries that result in lost days
Not only are workplace injuries painful, they can impact your livelihood by causing you to miss work. Common injuries that cause work absence include:
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head and neck trauma
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Cuts, lacerations, and punctures
- Lung damage from exposure to harmful substances
- Damage to ears, eyes, and throat
As a worker, you have the right to a safe workplace. If you have suffered an injury on the job, contact our office today.
At Ajlouny Injury Law, you will always be put through directly to an attorney. You pay no fees unless we win.
Workplace Accident Statistics
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there are an average of 15 people killed every day on the job in the United States. Many workplace accidents and injuries are caused by a failure to adhere to safety standards required by OSHA and other regulatory agencies.
As shown in recent data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 83 fatal work injuries in New York City in 2022 alone. The highest number of workplace fatalities occurred in the private construction industry sector, accounting for 23 out of the 83 total deaths.
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that within just 10 minutes in the United States, 1,199 workers are injured on the job. And they are not just limited to construction jobs– workplace injuries can happen in any industry, including "desk jobs," such as professional and business services and educational and health services.
Typical causes of workplace injuries in NYC
Understanding the common causes of workplace injuries can help in preventing them and ensuring a safer working environment. In New York City, the causes of workplace injuries are as varied as the job sites themselves.
Here are some common causes:
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Particularly in busy environments, employees may slip on wet floors, trip on uneven surfaces, or fall from ladders or scaffolding.
- Overexertion and Strain: Heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or spending long hours sitting can lead to strain injuries, especially for warehouse, construction, or office workers.
- Construction Accidents: Falls, equipment mishaps, falling objects, and collapses are frequent on NYC construction sites.
- Vehicle Incidents: Those in the transportation or delivery industries may face accidents from collisions, moving vehicles, or vehicle malfunctions.
- Machinery Malfunctions: Injuries can result from operating faulty or poorly maintained equipment.
- Hazardous Substances: Exposure to chemicals, asbestos, or fumes can cause burns, respiratory issues, and other health problems.
- Violence: Employees in retail, healthcare, or public service may face physical or verbal assaults, leading to emotional and even physical harm.
- Ergonomic Issues: Poor workstation design can lead to chronic pain and musculoskeletal problems, especially in office settings.
Other Locations We Serve
Our team is dedicated to assisting clients throughout all of New York City. We also offer our services in various neighborhoods, including but not limited to:
- Brooklyn
- Garden City
- New York
- Queens
Wherever you are in the city, we're here to provide the support you need.
Speak to our New York Workplace Injury Law Firm Today!
If you or a loved one has been hurt on the job, we understand how challenging and overwhelming this time can be. The physical and emotional toll of a workplace injury can be immense, and deciphering the legal system might feel like an additional burden.
At Ajlouny Injury Law, we’ll help ease that burden, because we genuinely care about your well-being and are committed to offering compassionate support and dedicated legal guidance through every step of your recovery.
We're here to listen, understand your unique situation, and work tirelessly to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us as soon as possible after sustaining work-related injuries to schedule a free consultation with our New York City workplace lawyer.
