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Home | Long-term Workplace Illnesses

Long-term Workplace Illnesses

New York Long-Term Workplace Illness Lawyers Know How Diseases Can Develop Slowly And May Be Deadly

Unlike workplace accidents, in which a worker is maimed or killed in an instant, long-term occupational illnesses develop over time and can become progressively worse, sometimes resulting in death. An occupational disease is defined as any disabling medical condition causally related to exposure to irritants in the workplace, and which arises due to the nature of the employment. The list of job-related diseases that bring sick New York workers to our law firm is virtually endless, and from numerous industries:

A construction worker going into a tunnel undergroundWhat is the most common occupational illness?

Occupational illnesses often vary depending on your industry, job role, and exposure to hazards. Some occupational illnesses develop slowly while others emerge quickly. They typically include:

  • Musculoskeletal disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, lower back pain, and repetitive stress injuries.
  • Noise-induced hearing loss.
  • Respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, silicosis, asbestosis, and pneumoconiosis.
  • Skin disorders such as dermatitis, skin cancers, and chemical burns.
  • Occupational cancers such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, and leukemia.
  • Stress-related disorders such as depression and anxiety.
  • Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis.

What is the difference between occupational injury and illness?

Unlike occupational illnesses, occupational injuries tend to happen quickly or develop over the course of several hours or days. They typically result from workplace accidents such as falls and machine accidents. Examples of occupational injuries are head injuries, broken bones, cuts and lacerations, and sprains.

In some cases, an occupational injury can lead to long-term health problems. For example, a cut can lead to an infection and broken bones that aren’t properly treated can lead to long-term mobility issues.

Returning to work after a long-term illness

Returning to work after a long-term illness can be a significant milestone in your recovery. However, it presents some challenges for both you and your employer. It requires careful planning, flexibility, and support.

First and foremost, you should obtain medical clearance from your doctor before you return to work. This confirms that you’re physically and mentally ready to return to work. Next, consider a phased or gradual return to work, if possible. Discuss necessary work adjustments or accommodations with your employer.

All of these issues and considerations can be confusing. That’s why our law firm advises workers considering returning to work after a long-term illness to talk with one of our workers’ compensation lawyers. We can ensure that your rights are protected, and that you make a smooth transition back to work that does not put your future health at risk.

Mesothelioma, Silicosis, Asbestosis or Carpal Tunnel From Work? Call a NY Long-term Workplace Illness Lawyer Today

Because long-term work sicknesses often emerge slowly, sometimes over years and decades at the same job, employers and workers compensation insurance companies will often try to argue that an on-the-job illness is a pre-existing condition or an illness that a worker already had. But when they find out you have us on your side, they'll listen because they know that for 90 years, we've been successfully representing injured workers in New York. They know that we meticulously prepare every case and will go to court if needed. If you have been exposed to toxic dust, contagious diseases, continuous motion duties, loud noise, bright lights, emotional stress or any ongoing job irritant, injury, pain or dangerous conditions at work, you could be suffering from an occupational disease. You need a long-term workplace illness lawyer in New York who will fight hard for your justice.

Everyone at the Law Offices at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP understands how intimidating the workers comp process can be, especially if you're sick, weak or suffering from chronic pain. If you lost a loved one due to a catastrophic occupational disease, contact us about a possible wrongful death lawsuit. We've also been representing union members for over 90 years. If you have us on your side, we will work with your local union, whether you're a teamster, a New York firefighter, a New York City police officer, a bricklayer or a sandhog. Call us toll-free at (800) 692-3717 or contact us online for a free evaluation. We will help you get your life back, whether you live in Long Island, Brooklyn, Westchester or Manhattan.

For more than nine decades, New Yorkers struck down by work-related illnesses and diseases have relied on us to work as hard as we can to reach the settlement they deserve, and you can, too. Call today-we're the tough New York personal injury legal team you want on your side, and all conversations are personalized and confidential.