New York City Occupational Exposure Attorneys

What Types of Illnesses Can Harmful Occupational Exposure Cause?

Exposure to dangerous, harmful, and toxic substances in the workplace can lead to an array of illnesses and medical conditions.

Some examples include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lung conditions from inhaling chemicals, asbestos, dust, or other airborne particles/toxins
• Brain damage resulting from chemical fumes
• Skin conditions resulting from handling toxic substances or latex sensitivity
• Cancer caused by certain toxic conditions/substances
• Lead poisoning

Healthcare workers are also at a heightened risk of being exposed to infectious disease, bloodborne pathogens, bacteria, and viruses, including COVID-19, in the workplace. This can result in healthcare workers being diagnosed with serious medical conditions, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis C, influenza, HIV/AIDS, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and more.

Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace

Some of the most common types of workplace-borne illnesses are those that result from asbestos exposure. Asbestos is an extremely dangerous substance used in commercial and industrial settings, especially during the early part of the 20^th Century up until the 1970s. Many employees may be regularly exposed to asbestos without even realizing it. As a result, they may fail to recognize various health symptoms as being related to asbestos exposure and may not receive prompt or proper treatment.

Asbestos exposure causes a variety of medical conditions, including mesothelioma (a type of cancer) and asbestosis. Because the latency period for these illnesses, especially mesothelioma, is so long, many people do not seek treatment until their conditions have progressed significantly. As a result, these illnesses are often fatal.

9/11 & Ground Zero Harmful Exposure Claims

First responders, volunteers, cleanup crews, and others who joined in recovery and clean-up efforts at Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks on 9/11 were exposed to numerous harmful chemicals, toxins, and substances. The state of New York enacted legislation allowing these individuals to bring workers’ compensation claims in the months and years following the attacks.

At Schotter Millican, LLP, we are proud to represent the many heroes who put their health, safety, and lives on the line to serve others. Learn more about filing a 9/11 Ground Zero participant claim, and how our firm can help, by clicking here.

Workers’ Compensation for Victims of Harmful Occupational Exposure

Exposure to asbestos, benzene, and other dangerous chemicals, toxins, and substances can change the whole course of your life. If you were exposed to harmful substances at work or during the course of your employment, you are likely eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

Every workers’ compensation case is different. It is important that you are aware of what you can reasonably expect from the process, including which types of benefits (and how much in payment) you may be entitled to receive.

Under New York’s workers’ compensation laws, you may be entitled to the following benefits:

• Medical Benefits: Workers’ compensation pays for all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your qualifying injury or illness. This includes costs associated with prescription medications, medical treatments, rehabilitation, surgery, and even mileage to and from medical appointments.
• Wage Replacement Benefits: Workers’ compensation pays temporary and permanent partial and total disability benefits to workers who are unable to return to work due to their qualifying injuries or illnesses. Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits are paid at a rate of 2/3 your average weekly wage.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Vocational rehabilitation benefits are meant to assist workers who are unable to return to work due to qualifying injuries or illnesses. These benefits aid with the cost of educational materials and courses, retraining, job placement services, and other related expenses.

Additionally, when a worker passes away due to a job-related injury or illness, their surviving family members may be able to recover workers’ compensation death benefits. If your loved one suffered a fatal illness or medical condition due to harmful occupational exposure, reach out to our firm to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Understanding Your Rights: The Importance of Legal Advocacy

When it comes to harmful occupational exposure, navigating the legal landscape can be daunting. At Schotter Millican, LLP, we believe that understanding your rights is paramount to securing the compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through each step of the legal process, ensuring that you are informed and empowered.

Key reasons to consider legal advocacy for your occupational exposure claim include:

• Experienced Guidance: We provide personalized consultations to help clarify your situation and outline your options.
• Comprehensive Case Evaluation: Our team thoroughly reviews the specifics of your case to evaluate the evidence and strengthen your claim.
• Maximizing Compensation: We strive to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available, including coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Support During Claim Process: Our attorneys stand by your side, assisting with all necessary paperwork and ensuring that deadlines are met.
• Trial Experience: Should your case go to trial, you can trust that we have the expertise to represent your interests vigorously in court.