Helpful Information About the Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Our New York law firm has compiled some useful resources for you
At Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP we realize these are uncertain times. You have a lot of questions, and sometimes trying to scour through the web to find the right answers can be a difficult. That’s why our New York law firm is providing this COVID-19 resource page. It’s our hope that this information will help answer some of the most common questions our clients and other New Yorkers have regarding workers’ compensation, your rights as an employee during this outbreak, and much more.
While New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has directed certain workers to work from home and everyone to practice social distancing, please be assured that our law firm remains fully operational. COVID-19 will not impact our ability to manage your legal case, as we can handle everything remotely. Along with electronic signature technology, we can communicate with our new and existing clients via phone, email, and through video conferencing.
We’ve been serving the people of New York for the last 90 years, and we’re not about to stop now. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us right away.
FAQs/Resources
How do I contact the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board?
You can contact the WCB toll-free at (877) 632-4996. The Board also has an extensive list of contact information posted on its website. Please note that all Board locations are currently closed, but operations will continue remotely.
How am I supposed to attend my workers’ comp hearing?
All NYS Workers’ Compensation Board hearings can be conducted remotely online through the Board’s Virtual Hearings. Injured workers can also choose to participate in hearings via phone by calling (844) 337-6301. You may also get your hearing rescheduled in the event you are an unrepresented injured worker and cannot participate in your hearing under the current circumstances.
How will I sign all the necessary paperwork for my claim?
Until further notice, the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board has suspended the requirement for original handwritten signatures during this pandemic. There are a few different options for injured workers to sign important documents, including the use of electronic signature technology.
Am I still required to show attachment to the labor market to get benefits?
Due to the current restrictions in place, you are not required to conduct a job search or participate in job placement programs to keep your partial disability payments.
What happens if I can’t attend an Independent Medical Examination?
If you offer a reasonable excuse, your workers’ comp benefits will not be suspended for failure to attend your Independent Medical Examination. If you are unable to appear at your IME due to the current circumstances, you should inform your attorney right away. You also need to notify the IME doctor and the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board via email at wcbclaimsfiling@wcb.ny.gov or by sending a letter to the Board at: PO Box 5205, Binghamton, NY 13902-5205.
How can I protect myself and my family from COVID-19?
To protect yourself and your loved ones from contracting the Coronavirus, you should:
- Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Try not to touch your face, eyes, nose, and mouth
- Avoid coming in contact with people who are sick
- Keep a distance of at least 6 feet between you and others
- Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects.
What can New Yorkers do to help?
Along with following CDC recommendations and practicing social distancing, there are other things New Yorkers can do to help support the state’s response to COVID-19, including the donation of goods, services, and space.
Where can I go to get the latest information?
For up-to-date information about mandated school and business closures, social distancing protocols, penalties for violations, health insurance, and more, visit the New York State website. You can also sign up for e-mail updates to keep informed about the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.