Workers’ Rights Blog

February 1, 2026

When Work Stress Qualifies for Compensation

Many workers in New York experience stress at work, but sometimes that stress becomes something more serious. When pressure, fear, or emotional strain begins to affect daily life, sleep, or the ability to work, it may be a sign of a mental stress injury. These injuries can be just as real and damagi

January 1, 2026

Year-End Layoffs and RSI Claims in New York

Many workers in New York face layoffs near the end or the start of the year. For people dealing with pain from repetitive stress injuries, losing a job can raise urgent questions: Can a workers’ compensation claim still move forward after being laid off? Does the timing of the injury matter? What pr

December 1, 2025

Winter Construction Hazards in NYC: Injuries & Compensation Rights

Navigating through New York City’s winter is challenging, especially for construction workers who face various hazards due to ice and snow accumulation. Icy surfaces transform the work environment into a precarious stage where the risk of slips and falls exponentially increases. Imagine trying to ma

October 20, 2025

Schotter Millican Argues Groundbreaking Mental Stress Workers’ Compensation Case before New York’s Highest Court

New York, NY – October 6, 2025 – Schotter Millican is proud to announce that the landmark case Anderson v. City of Yonkers will be decided by the New York Court of Appeals. On October 15, 2025, Geoffrey Schotter personally argued on behalf of essential workers seeking compensation for mental stress

October 1, 2025

Uninsured Employers & Your Rights in NYC Construction Accidents

Uninsured employers in the construction industry are those who fail to provide the necessary workers' compensation insurance for their employees. This lack of coverage leaves workers vulnerable if accidents occur on the job. In industries as precarious as construction, this oversight can lead to dir

July 31, 2025

7 Common Construction Injuries and Your Rights to Compensation

Construction work is one of the most vital industries but comes with significant risks. Every day, workers face potential dangers that can lead to serious injuries, affecting their health, livelihood, and future.

July 17, 2025

Hurt in a Motor Vehicle Accident While Working in New York? You May Be Entitled to More Than Just Workers' Comp

Whether you're a delivery driver, construction worker, home health aide, or technician commuting between job sites, being injured in a motor vehicle accident while working can disrupt your life in major ways. Fortunately, you may have multiple options for recovering compensation—not just through wor

July 10, 2025

Injured by a Fall from Height or Falling Object at Work in New York? You May Have More Than One Claim

Falls from heights and injuries caused by falling objects are among the most serious accidents that can happen on a job site—especially in a city like New York, where construction, maintenance, and building services frequently involve elevated work and overhead hazards. If you’ve been injured in one

June 30, 2025

Who’s Liable? Truck Accidents and Workers’ Comp Explained

Imagine being caught in a moment where everything changes in the blink of an eye. Truck accidents involve not just crushed metal but also crushed confidence, unclear next steps, and a maze of legal complexities. When grappling with these challenges, understanding how the law assigns fault and how li

June 1, 2025

Delayed Injury Symptoms After a Construction Accident and What They Mean

Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments. With heavy machinery, dangerous tools, and elevated workspaces, accidents are, unfortunately, part of the risks many construction workers face daily. However, not all injuries are immediately apparent. Some symptoms may appear hours, days, or

May 28, 2025

Facing Layoffs in NYC? You May Still Be Eligible for Workers’ Compensation for Repetitive Strain Injuries

As New York City braces for another wave of layoffs across various industries—from construction and manufacturing to healthcare and education, tech, and finance—many workers are left uncertain about their future. At Schotter Millican, LLP, we want you to know that if you’ve developed a repetitive st

April 1, 2025

The Role of Employer Negligence in Work-Related Car Accidents and Workers' Compensation Claims

Work-related car accidents can be life-changing. They can cause physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial hardships for employees. If you’ve been injured in a car accident while performing job duties, understanding the role of employer negligence and its impact on workers’ compensation cl

March 5, 2025

Are Independent Contractors Eligible for Workers’ Compensation on Construction Sites?

In the bustling world of construction, independent contractors often find themselves in a unique position when it comes to workers' compensation. While traditional employees typically have clear-cut access to these benefits, independent contractors face a more complex landscape. This article aims to

March 5, 2025

Common Reasons Workers’ Comp Claims Are Denied in Construction

Workers' compensation in the construction industry serves as a crucial safety net for employees who suffer injuries on the job. Its primary objective is to provide financial support and medical care to injured workers, ensuring they can recover without the added stress of financial instability. This

March 5, 2025

Understanding Your Legal Rights After an RSI Diagnosis

Repetitive Strain Injury, commonly referred to as RSI, encompasses a variety of conditions that result from overuse of certain muscles and tendons. These injuries are often associated with repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression, or sustained/awkward positions. Some

February 3, 2025

What Are the Most Common Workplace Injuries That Qualify for Workers' Compensation?

Workers' compensation is a vital safety net for employees who suffer injuries or illnesses as a result of their jobs. It serves the dual purpose of providing financial support and medical care to injured workers, ensuring they can recover without the added stress of financial instability. This syste

January 1, 2025

Machinery Accidents and Workers' Compensation: Understanding Your Rights

Machinery accidents in the workplace are often the result of a combination of factors, with equipment malfunction being one of the primary culprits. When machinery is not properly maintained, it can lead to unexpected breakdowns and malfunctions that put workers at risk. Additionally, a lack of adeq

November 30, 2024

How Common Is Occupational Hearing Loss?

Occupational hearing loss is a significant concern globally, affecting millions of workers across various industries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 16% of disabling hearing loss in adults is attributed to occupational noise exposure. In the United States alone, the

October 18, 2024

Understanding Anderson v. City of Yonkers: Workers’ Compensation for Mental Stress During COVID-19

At Schotter Millican, we stand for workers' rights, particularly in challenging cases like Anderson v. City of Yonkers, which has become a critical case in the landscape of workers' compensation law in New York. This case explores whether workers exposed to high-risk environments during the COVID-19

October 7, 2024

What Is Vocational Rehabilitation?

Vocational rehabilitation is a specialized program designed to help individuals with disabilities or injuries return to the workforce. The primary goal of vocational rehabilitation is to provide the necessary support and resources to enable these individuals to achieve and maintain employment.

September 4, 2024

What Steps Should Employers Take to Minimize the Risk of Harmful Occupational Exposure in the Workplace?

Understanding the landscape of workplace dangers is the first step in crafting a safe environment for employees. A thorough evaluation of the workplace to identify chemical, physical, biological, and ergonomic hazards is not just a proactive measure, but a cornerstone of occupational safety. Employe

July 10, 2024

Can I Be Denied Workers' Compensation If My Injury Was Partially My Fault?

Workers' compensation is a system designed to support employees who suffer from work-related injuries or illnesses, regardless of who is at fault. This no-fault system simplifies the process, allowing workers to receive benefits without the need to prove their employer's negligence.

June 4, 2024

Navigating the Workers' Compensation Appeals Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Receiving a denial for a workers' compensation claim can be both disheartening and confusing. Often, the reasons for denial hinge on a few common issues.

March 31, 2024

What Should I Do If My Employer Retaliates Against Me for Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim?

Imagine you've just reported a safety concern or filed a workers' compensation claim, and suddenly, your work life takes a turn for the worse. This might not be a coincidence—it could be employer retaliation. Retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in legally protected

March 3, 2024

How To Prove Mental Stress In A Workers' Compensation Claim

Suffering from mental stress at work can significantly impact your overall well-being. If you're experiencing mental stress due to work-related factors, it's important to understand that you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. However, proving mental stress in a workers' compensation

January 1, 2024

Understanding Repetitive Strain Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Workers' Compensation Eligibility

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are a common occupational hazard that can cause significant discomfort and affect productivity in the workplace. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and workers' compensation eligibility for RSIs is crucial for employees and employers. In this blog post, we will del

December 3, 2023

What Can You Do If You Were Fired After Filing for Workers’ Compensation in New York?

November 17, 2023

Legal Pitfalls to Avoid in New York Workers' Compensation Claims

Successfully pursuing a workers' compensation claim in New York requires a comprehensive understanding of the legal terrain. At Schotter Millican, LLP, we recognize the complexities individuals face when navigating these claims. In this blog post, we shed light on potential legal pitfalls to help yo

November 17, 2023

Maximizing Benefits: Tips for Negotiating a Fair Settlement in New York Workers' Comp Cases

When navigating the complex terrain of Workers' Compensation cases in New York, knowledge is power. At Schotter Millican, LLP, we believe being informed is the first step towards maximizing benefits for our clients. This blog post will explore tips for negotiating a fair settlement in New York Worke

November 17, 2023

The Importance of a Well-Documented Injury in New York Workers' Comp Cases

Navigating the complex landscape of Workers' Compensation cases in New York requires meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the legal process. At Schotter Millican, LLP, we recognize the pivotal role that well-documented injuries play in these cases. This blog post will delve

November 17, 2023

Workers' Comp and Social Media: How Your Online Presence Can Affect Your Claim in New York

In an era dominated by social media, the way individuals present themselves online can have far-reaching consequences, including those related to workers' compensation claims. At Schotter Millican, LLP, we recognize the significance of the online presence of claimants and the potential impact it can

November 12, 2023

When Does a Death Qualify Under Workers' Comp In New York?

While no one wants to think about the possibility of a workplace death, it's important to know what your rights are in the event of such an occurrence. In New York, workers' compensation can provide benefits to dependents or heirs of a deceased employee if their death occurred during the course of t

October 2, 2023

How to Document and Report a Machinery Accident for a Successful Workers' Compensation Claim

Accidents involving machinery can have severe consequences, both physically and financially. If you've been involved in a machinery accident at your workplace, it's crucial to document and report the incident properly to ensure a successful workers' compensation claim. In this blog post, we will pro

September 25, 2023

Common Pitfalls of NYC Workers' Compensation Claims

Workers' compensation claims can be complex and overwhelming, especially in a bustling city like New York. From navigating the legal process to understanding your rights and responsibilities, there are several pitfalls that can hinder your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. In this b

September 10, 2023

Illnesses Caused By Occupational Exposure in New York City

As a worker in New York City, you may be exposed to various hazards that can cause illnesses and injuries. Some of these risks may be associated with your occupation, such as exposure to toxic chemicals, loud noises, and physical strain. While your employer is responsible for providing a safe and he

August 25, 2023

Returning to Work After a Workplace Injury: Your Rights and Options

Returning to work after a workplace injury can be a daunting task. Not only are you dealing with physical and emotional trauma, but you also have to navigate the complex world of workers' compensation. Plus you may be worried about repercussions for filing a workers' compensation claim.

August 2, 2023

How Can I Get Compensation For Work-Related Mental Stress and Psychological Issues?

Mental stress and psychological issues can have a significant impact on an employee's ability to work. In some cases, these issues may be caused by work-related factors, such as a hostile work environment or job-related trauma. If you are experiencing work-related mental stress or psychological issu

July 13, 2023

How Do Pre-Existing Conditions Affect Your Workers' Compensation Claim for a Back Injury?

June 3, 2023

What Happens if My Employer Doesn’t Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

May 5, 2023

Workers' Compensation Claim for Occupational Diseases?

April 7, 2023

Workers' Compensation Claim Denied?

If you've been injured on the job, the New York workers' compensation system ensures that you receive the necessary compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. In most cases, filing a workers' compensation claim is straightforward and uncomplicated. However, if your

March 12, 2023

Can I Collect Workers’ Compensation for Long-Haul Covid-19?

As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, many are wondering if they can receive workers' compensation for long-term symptoms caused by contracting the virus. This blog will discuss the possibility of receiving workers' compensation for COVID-19 and its potential l

February 8, 2023

Does Workers’ Compensation Cover Remote Workers?

Due to COVID-19, employers had to implement protective measures for their employees, allowing them to work from home or telecommute as an alternative. However, three years later, this new way of working posed a new problem – could workers who experienced an injury or illness while working remotely b

January 10, 2023

What Happens When I’m Injured “Off-the-Clock”?

It's not uncommon for people to face workplace injuries, but what happens when an injury occurs outside your regular work hours? Are you still eligible to receive compensation? Understanding the legalities surrounding these types of injuries can help you determine what your rights are. Let's take a

December 7, 2022

Is Workplace Violence Covered by Workers' Compensation?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 761 workplace fatalities out of 5,333 were due to intentional injury by another in 2019. While workers' compensation provides relief for medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral or burial expenses for workers who have been injured or died on t

November 10, 2022

How to Avoid Being Accused of Workers’ Compensation Fraud

Insurance carriers know that even accusing an injured worker of fraud will delay and perhaps damage a workers’ compensation claim, whether or not the accusation sticks in the end. This is why insurance carriers are quick to make the accusation, often with little or no proof, and especially when they

November 10, 2022

What You Should Know About Workers’ Compensation Fraud

In New York, workers’ compensation fraud is both a civil matter within a workers’ compensation case itself that can result in disqualification from monetary benefits and potentially a criminal matter that can result in jail time.

October 10, 2022

The Dangers of Occupational Hearing Loss

Exposure to noise on the job is one of the most common occupational hazards in the United States. As the third most common chronic condition among adults, hearing loss affects roughly 12 percent of all U.S. workers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 22 m

September 12, 2022

Remembering 9/11: The Forgotten Workers of Ground Zero

It has been 21 years since the September 11th terrorist attacks, and our country still feels the effects. While the TV cameras and news headlines have focused most of the attention on the first responders to the attacks, countless more workers stayed behind during the year that followed to do the ph

August 10, 2022

5 Steps to Take Following a Work Injury in New York

Being involved in a workplace accident can be a frightening and stressful experience. In addition to the physical injuries you may suffer, you may be left dealing with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the psychological effects of the accident.

July 12, 2022

What You Should Know About the Scaffold Law (Labor Law 240)