Falls at Work: Your Rights Under New York Workers’ Compensation Law

A fallen warehouse worker surrounded by other workers who are rushing to help

Falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries—and they can happen in nearly any setting, from a construction site to an office building. Whether it’s a slip on an icy parking lot, a trip on uneven flooring, or a fall from height, the results can be serious. Injuries from workplace falls often include broken bones, back and neck injuries, head trauma, or long-term joint damage.

At MCV Law, we understand how disruptive a fall at work can be—not just physically, but financially and emotionally. That’s why our Workers’ Compensation and Personal Injury teams work together to help injured workers get the support they need, including access to medical care, wage replacement, and, in some cases, additional compensation under New York’s Labor Law.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

In New York, most employees are covered by Workers’ Compensation, which provides:

  • Medical treatment for your injury
  • Partial wage replacement while you're unable to work or have a reduction in wages
  • Reimbursement for certain injury-related expenses
  • Permanent disability benefits if your injury leads to lasting impairment

The exact amount and duration of benefits depend on the severity of your injury, how long you're out of work, and whether you’re able to return to your previous job.

Unfortunately, some employers and insurance carriers may dispute or deny claims, delay medical authorizations, or try to minimize the benefits you receive. That’s where having experienced legal representation can make all the difference.

What if You Fell on the Way Into or Out of Work?

Under New York law, injuries that occur while entering or leaving work—referred to as ingress and egress—may still be covered by Workers’ Compensation, especially if the fall happened on your employer’s property. For example, slipping on ice in your company’s parking lot could qualify for benefits, even if you hadn’t clocked in yet.

However, if the fall occurred in a remote or shared parking area, your eligibility may depend on additional legal factors. Our attorneys can help determine whether your injury is compensable under Workers’ Compensation law or if other claims—like a third-party premises liability case—may apply.

Can You Sue for a Workplace Fall?

Workers’ Compensation generally limits your ability to sue your employer. But if your fall resulted from someone else’s negligence—such as a property owner, contractor, or equipment supplier—you may have a separate personal injury claim.

In construction and labor-related industries, New York’s Labor Law provides additional protections. For example, if you fell from a height due to an unsafe ladder or lack of proper fall protection, you may have a Labor Law claim in addition to your Workers’ Compensation case.

How MCV Law Can Help

MCV Law has decades of experience representing injured workers across New York. Our attorneys take the time to understand your situation and explain your rights under the law—whether you slipped in a hallway, tripped on a loading dock, or fell from scaffolding on a construction site.

If you’ve been injured in a fall at work, don’t wait. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better we can protect your rights and help you pursue the benefits and compensation you deserve.

Contact MCV Law today for a free consultation.

New York Workers’ Compensation Law is changing all the time and our team has the knowledge and expertise necessary to successfully litigate even the most challenging claims. Contact our Workers’ Compensation team now for a free case evaluation.

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