Injured at Work in Syracuse? Get the Compensation You Deserve.
Our Syracuse Work Injury Lawyers Are Ready to Help
Workers in Syracuse keep the city running, from those on construction sites and in warehouses to hospital staff and delivery drivers. But when safety isn’t prioritized, they’re the ones who suffer. Faulty equipment, poorly maintained worksites, and reckless third parties can all contribute to serious work injuries that can derail careers and put families under financial strain. While workers’ compensation helps cover medical costs and lost wages, it often falls short, especially when negligence is involved. When someone else’s carelessness causes harm, injured workers deserve full compensation for everything they’ve lost, not just what workers’ comp provides.
The real challenge is getting that compensation. Employers and insurance companies rarely make it easy, and when third-party negligence is involved, the legal process becomes even more complex. But that doesn’t mean you have to fight alone. Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP has spent decades standing up for injured workers in Syracuse and throughout New York. They know how to take on tough cases, push back against insurance companies, and secure the maximum compensation their clients deserve. If you’ve been hurt on the job, contact them today for a free case evaluation.
FAQs About Syracuse Work Injuries
Liability in work injury cases isn’t always straightforward, and without the right information, injured workers can miss out on the full compensation they deserve. Justice means holding negligent third parties accountable and ensuring victims aren’t left struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and long-term consequences. When a serious work injury happens in Syracuse, knowing your rights and legal options is important to securing the maximum recovery.
- What are common injuries and illnesses that result in third-party work injury claims in Syracuse, NY?
- What should I do if I get injured at work in Syracuse?
- Can I sue for a workplace injury in New York, or am I limited to workers’ compensation?
- What types of work injuries in Syracuse involve third-party liability claims?
- Who can be held responsible for my work injury besides my employer?
- How do I know if I have a third-party claim for my work-related injury or illness?
- What are common causes of workplace injuries in Syracuse that could involve negligence?
- What damages can I recover in a third-party work injury claim that workers’ comp doesn’t cover?
- Why do insurance companies try to deny or minimize compensation for serious work injuries?
- How can a Syracuse work injury lawyer help prove negligence and maximize my compensation?
- What should I do if my employer or the insurance company tries to dispute my injury claim?
- How does New York law protect injured construction workers seeking full compensation?
- What legal options do I have if a defective machine or dangerous equipment caused my injury?
- What rights do surviving family members have after a fatal work accident in Syracuse?
- Why is it critical to have an experienced lawyer handle my work injury case?
- How can Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP make it easier to get justice?
What are common injuries and illnesses that result in third-party work injury claims in Syracuse, NY?
Certain work-related injuries and illnesses often lead to third-party liability claims when someone other than the employer is responsible. Workers in industries such as construction, warehousing, manufacturing, and transportation are at a higher risk for serious injuries that may justify legal action beyond workers’ compensation. Common injuries and illnesses that result in third-party claims include:
- Traumatic brain injuries: Often caused by falls, falling objects, or vehicle crashes involving third-party negligence.
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: Can result from falls, machinery accidents, or vehicle collisions caused by unsafe conditions or reckless drivers.
- Fractures and crush injuries: Frequently seen in construction and industrial settings where equipment malfunctions or safety violations occur.
- Severe burns: Can happen due to chemical spills, explosions, or defective electrical equipment.
- Amputations: Often caused by defective machinery or unsafe working conditions in manufacturing and construction.
- Toxic exposure illnesses: Long-term exposure to hazardous substances such as asbestos, silica dust, or industrial chemicals due to a third party’s failure to provide proper safety measures.
- Occupational lung diseases: Chronic illnesses like silicosis or mesothelioma resulting from exposure to harmful substances at work.
- Eye injuries and vision loss: Can be caused by defective safety gear or exposure to hazardous chemicals.
- Hearing loss: Often due to prolonged exposure to excessive noise levels without adequate protective equipment.
When a third party is responsible for these types of injuries, victims may be able to recover additional compensation beyond what workers’ compensation provides. A Syracuse work injury attorney can investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and help you pursue the full amount you deserve.
What should I do if I get injured at work in Syracuse?
A work injury can leave you facing medical expenses, lost wages, and uncertainty about your future. The steps you take immediately after your injury can significantly impact your ability to recover full compensation. To protect your rights and maximize your claim, take the following actions:
- Report the injury right away: New York law requires workers to notify their employer within 30 days of a workplace injury to remain eligible for workers’ compensation.
- Seek medical attention from an authorized provider: If it’s an emergency, go to a hospital like Upstate University Hospital or St. Joseph’s Health. Otherwise, see a doctor approved by the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.
- Document the accident and your injuries: Take photos of unsafe conditions, gather witness statements, and keep copies of medical records and communications with your employer.
- Do not accept an insurance settlement without legal advice: Insurers may offer lowball settlements that don’t cover long-term costs.
- Consult a Syracuse work injury lawyer: A lawyer can evaluate whether third-party liability is involved and ensure you pursue every avenue for full compensation.
Even when a claim seems straightforward, insurance companies and employers often try to minimize payouts. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can prevent costly mistakes and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Can I sue for a workplace injury in New York, or am I limited to workers’ compensation?
In most cases, New York’s workers’ compensation system prevents employees from suing their employer directly, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have legal options. If a third party such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner was responsible for your injury, you may be able to file a third-party liability claim for damages beyond workers’ comp. For example, if you were injured in a fall due to unsafe scaffolding at a construction site on Erie Boulevard, the general contractor or property owner may be liable. Workers’ compensation only covers medical bills and a portion of lost wages, but a lawsuit can provide compensation for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and long-term disability. A work injury lawyer can determine if you have a case beyond workers’ comp.
What types of work injuries in Syracuse involve third-party liability claims?
Not all work injuries are the fault of an employer. In many cases, third parties such as contractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers contribute to workplace accidents. If a third party’s negligence caused your injury, you may have a claim beyond workers’ compensation. Some common work injuries that lead to third-party liability claims include:
- Construction site injuries: Falls due to defective scaffolding, crane accidents, or injuries caused by negligent subcontractors.
- Machinery and equipment injuries: Malfunctions or failures due to manufacturer defects or improper maintenance by an outside vendor.
- Vehicle-related accidents: Delivery drivers, warehouse workers, and utility employees injured in crashes caused by negligent drivers.
- Exposure to toxic substances: Illnesses from chemical exposure caused by manufacturers or negligent safety protocols.
- Slip-and-fall accidents on unsafe property: Injuries occurring at a job site due to property owner negligence.
If your injury was caused by a third party, you may be entitled to compensation beyond workers’ comp, including pain and suffering. An experienced work injury lawyer can help identify all liable parties and pursue the full damages you deserve.
Who can be held responsible for my work injury besides my employer?
Workers’ compensation covers medical costs and lost wages, but it doesn’t hold negligent parties accountable. When a third party’s negligence contributes to your injury, you may have a separate claim against them. Liable parties in a work injury case can include:
- Subcontractors and vendors: If another company working at your job site acted recklessly and caused your injury.
- Property owners: If dangerous conditions on a worksite led to a fall, electrocution, or other injury.
- Equipment and machinery manufacturers: If faulty tools, defective safety equipment, or malfunctioning machines caused your accident.
- Drivers and transportation companies: If you were injured in a vehicle accident while driving for work or by a reckless driver on the job.
Holding third parties accountable can significantly increase your financial recovery. A Syracuse work injury attorney can investigate your accident and determine who is liable.
How do I know if I have a third-party claim for my work-related injury or illness?
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, but if someone outside of your employer contributed to your injury, you may be entitled to additional compensation. You may have a third-party claim if:
- You were injured by a subcontractor or vendor: Common on construction sites where multiple companies work together.
- Your injury was caused by defective machinery or equipment: If a manufacturer or distributor failed to ensure product safety.
- A property owner’s negligence caused your injury: If you were hurt due to unsafe conditions on premises not owned by your employer.
- You were hit by a vehicle while working: If another driver caused the crash while you were on the job.
Third-party claims allow injured workers to recover damages beyond workers’ compensation, including pain and suffering. Consulting an attorney can help determine whether you have a valid case.
What are common causes of workplace injuries in Syracuse that could involve negligence?
Many workplace accidents are preventable and occur because of unsafe conditions, inadequate safety measures, or third-party negligence. Some of the most common causes of serious work injuries in Syracuse include:
- Falls from heights: Often caused by defective scaffolding, unsecured ladders, or lack of fall protection.
- Struck-by accidents: Injuries from falling objects, moving machinery, or vehicle impacts.
- Defective equipment failures: Malfunctioning tools or machines that lead to severe injuries.
- Toxic exposure: Dangerous chemical leaks or exposure due to lack of proper safety protocols.
- Motor vehicle accidents: Delivery drivers, utility workers, and others injured on the road.
If negligence contributed to your workplace injury, you may have grounds for a liability claim. A lawyer can assess your situation and help you seek full compensation.
What damages can I recover in a third-party work injury claim that workers’ comp doesn’t cover?
Workers’ compensation only covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, but third-party claims allow injured workers to recover additional damages, including:
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
- Full wage replacement: Unlike workers’ comp, third-party claims can recover all lost wages.
- Future medical expenses: Compensation for long-term rehabilitation, surgeries, and ongoing care.
- Loss of earning capacity: If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job.
These damages can make a significant difference in your financial recovery. A work injury lawyer can help you maximize your claim.
Why do insurance companies try to deny or minimize compensation for serious work injuries?
Insurance companies focus on minimizing payouts to protect their profits, which means they often try to dispute liability, downplay injuries, or delay claims. In Syracuse, injured workers frequently deal with pushback from insurance companies that argue their injury was pre-existing or not work-related, even when clear evidence proves otherwise. For example, if you suffered a serious back injury at a warehouse near Destiny USA and required surgery, the insurer might claim your injury was due to age or an old accident rather than the lifting strain at work. Some insurers delay payments, hoping financial stress will force workers to accept lowball settlements. Having a lawyer ensures that insurance companies don’t take advantage of you and that you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
How can a Syracuse work injury lawyer help prove negligence and maximize my compensation?
Proving liability in a work injury case can be challenging when employers and insurance companies push back. A skilled attorney can:
- Investigate the accident: This involves gathering evidence such as safety records, eyewitness testimony, and expert analysis.
- Identify all liable parties: An attorney can ensure that third parties responsible for your injury are held accountable.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: A lawyer will fight against lowball settlements that don’t reflect the true cost of your injury.
- Take your case to court if necessary: If the insurance company won’t agree to a fair settlement, an attorney can fight for you at trial.
Without legal representation, injured workers often receive far less than they deserve. An attorney can ensure you don’t leave money on the table.
What should I do if my employer or the insurance company tries to dispute my injury claim?
If your employer or their insurance company disputes your claim, it’s important to act quickly and gather solid evidence to support your case. Start by documenting everything, including medical records, witness statements, and any communication regarding your injury. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal through the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board, which may require a hearing before a judge. Employers and insurers often try to argue that injuries didn’t happen at work, especially in industries like trucking, where injuries may occur on I-81 or the New York State Thruway while making deliveries. A work injury lawyer can present evidence, challenge false claims, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
How does New York law protect injured construction workers seeking full compensation?
New York has some of the strongest worker protection laws in the country, particularly for construction workers who face dangers on job sites every day. Labor Law 240, also known as the Scaffold Law, allows injured workers to hold property owners and general contractors liable if they suffer falls due to unsafe scaffolding, ladders, or fall protection failures. For example, if you were working on a high-rise near Armory Square and fell because of a faulty harness, you could file a third-party lawsuit against the responsible parties. Construction workers are also protected under Labor Law 241, which requires proper safety equipment on sites. If safety violations led to your injury, an attorney can help you pursue maximum compensation beyond workers’ comp.
What legal options do I have if a defective machine or dangerous equipment caused my injury?
Faulty machinery and equipment failures are common causes of workplace injuries, and when they happen, the manufacturer or distributor may be held liable. If you were injured due to defective equipment, you may have a product liability claim in addition to workers’ comp. These claims can be based on:
- Defective design: The equipment was inherently unsafe due to poor design.
- Manufacturing defects: The product had flaws due to errors during production.
- Failure to warn: The manufacturer did not provide adequate safety instructions or warnings.
A lawyer can help determine if a product liability lawsuit is an option in your case.
What rights do surviving family members have after a fatal work accident in Syracuse?
If a worker dies due to a workplace accident or occupational illness, their surviving family members may be entitled to workers’ compensation death benefits and, in some cases, a wrongful death lawsuit. New York workers’ comp provides weekly payments to dependents and coverage for funeral and burial expenses, but these benefits often don’t account for the full financial loss a family experiences. If the death was caused by third-party negligence, such as a reckless driver hitting a road crew on Route 690 or a defective piece of machinery failing on a job site, surviving family members may be able to sue for full lost earnings, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship. Speaking with an experienced lawyer can help families secure justice and financial stability after a tragic loss.
Why is it critical to have an experienced lawyer handle my work injury case?
Work injury cases can quickly become complicated when third-party liability, insurance disputes, or permanent disabilities are involved. Without legal representation, injured workers often accept less than they deserve or miss opportunities to pursue additional compensation. In cases where unsafe property conditions, faulty equipment, or reckless subcontractors contributed to an injury, a lawyer can investigate liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to court if necessary. Whether your injury happened at a construction site in Syracuse’s Inner Harbor, a factory in East Syracuse, or a warehouse in Liverpool, getting legal help can mean the difference between struggling financially and securing full compensation for your recovery.
How can Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP make it easier to get justice?
Work injury claims are overwhelming when insurance companies push back. Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP makes the process easier by:
- Handling all legal paperwork and negotiations so you don’t have to.
- Investigating third-party negligence to maximize your compensation.
- Fighting back against insurance company tactics designed to minimize payouts.
- Taking cases to court when necessary to ensure clients receive full justice.
If you’ve been injured at work in Syracuse, don’t go through this alone. Contact Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP for a free consultation today.
Get a Syracuse Work Injury Attorney Who Fights for You
A serious work injury can change everything – your health, your income, and your future. But you don’t have to take on the insurance companies and negligent parties alone. A Syracuse work injury attorney at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP can handle every step of your case, from filing claims to negotiating for the maximum compensation you deserve. Whether you’re facing employer pushback, insurance delays, or a complex third-party liability claim, we know how to fight and win.
You’ve worked hard. Now let us work for you. Contact Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP today for a free consultation. There’s no fee unless we win, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.