Many people travel regularly for work without giving it a second thought. However, workers traveling for their jobs may find themselves in unfamiliar environments, engaging in activities, or navigating conditions that increase their risk of accidents that cause significant harm. Injuries during business travel can be disruptive and, in many cases, life-altering. Fortunately, New York law recognizes that injuries sustained in the course of business travel are often work-related and may be compensable under workers’ compensation laws. If you were hurt while traveling for work, it is crucial to consult with an attorney about your right to benefits. Valerie Crown of The Law Firm of Valerie J. Crown, Attorney at Law, P.C., is a skilled Rockland County workers’ compensation lawyer who understands the challenges that can develop in claims arising out of harm sustained during business travel, and if you engage her services, she can help you pursue the benefits you deserve. Ms. Crown represents injured employees in Rockland, Orange, Westchester, Dutchess, Ulster, and Putnam Counties as well as in the greater metropolitan area.
Common Injuries During Business TravelInjuries during business travel encompass a wide range of harm including physical trauma, repetitive stress injuries, and illnesses caused by exposure to hazardous conditions. Workers, traveling for their jobs, may suffer injuries in car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents in hotels or conference centers, or even workplace-related violence while on assignment. Such injuries can lead to serious consequences including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, back and neck injuries, and psychological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
Travel-related injuries can be particularly challenging for employees because they often occur far from home, making immediate medical treatment and reporting more difficult. However, it is important to understand that workers’ compensation laws in New York typically cover injuries, sustained while performing work-related duties during business travel, provided that the travel serves a legitimate business purpose.
Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Injuries During Business TravelEmployees, injured during business travel, may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they meet the requirements under New York law. Specifically, the employee must demonstrate that the injury arose out of and in the course of employment. For example, injuries sustained while attending a business meeting, completing a delivery, or participating in a work-required training session, are likely compensable. However, injuries occurring during personal activities, such as sightseeing or dining on personal time, may not qualify.
Under New York law, workers’ compensation benefits for eligible employees include medical and disability benefits. Medical benefits cover necessary and reasonable treatment for work-related injuries, including emergency care, hospitalization, physical and occupational therapy, and prescription medications.
Disability benefits are available for employees who suffer a loss of income due to their inability to work because of their work-related illness or injury. Temporary total disability benefits compensate employees who are unable to work during recovery, typically amounting to two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage, subject to state-imposed minimums and maximums. Employees, who suffer long-term or permanent disabilities due to business travel injuries, may also qualify for partial or total permanent disability benefits.
It is essential to report injuries promptly to an employer and comply with New York’s workers’ compensation deadlines to preserve the right to benefits. Employees must generally notify their employer of the injury within 30 days and file a formal claim within two years.
Consult a Knowledgeable Rockland County Workers’ Compensation LawyerNavigating the legal process for injuries during business travel can be complex, especially when trying to recover from a serious injury. If you were hurt while traveling for work, you should consult an attorney to evaluate your options. Valerie Crown of The Law Firm of Valerie J. Crown, Attorney at Law, P.C., is a knowledgeable Rockland County workers’ compensation attorney who is dedicated to helping clients understand their rights, and if she represents you, she will work tirelessly to help you see the benefits you need to recover physically and financially. Ms. Crown has an office in New York, and she proudly serves clients in Rockland, Westchester, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, and Putnam Counties and the greater metropolitan area. You can reach her by calling 845-708-5900 (office number) or 845-598-8253 (Valerie’s direct cellphone) 24/7or by filling out the online contact form.