The knee is one of the most commonly injured joints in the workplace, and for good reason. It absorbs enormous pressure during lifting, kneeling, climbing, and walking on uneven surfaces. For the many Queens workers who spend their days in physically demanding jobs, knee injuries are a real occupational hazard.
At Bangel, Cohen & Falconetti, we help Queens workers who’ve suffered work-related knee injuries get the workers’ compensation benefits they need. Whether your injury happened suddenly or developed over time, you have options.
What Causes Knee Injuries at Work
Queens workers in construction, transportation, cleaning, and healthcare are among those most likely to experience knee injuries. These injuries typically result from:
- Kneeling repeatedly on hard surfaces throughout a workday
- Twisting or pivoting suddenly while carrying a load
- Falling onto the knee on a hard floor or ground surface
- Direct impact from equipment, tools, or a vehicle
- Climbing stairs or ladders repeatedly over long shifts
Knee Conditions That Are Covered Under Workers’ Comp
Workers’ compensation in New York covers a wide range of knee injuries, including:
- Torn meniscus from a sudden twist or accumulated wear
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears from a fall or forceful movement
- Patellar fractures from direct impact
- Bursitis from prolonged kneeling on hard surfaces
- Cartilage damage that worsens over time without treatment
Some of these conditions require surgery, followed by months of rehabilitation. Others may result in chronic pain or permanent limitations that affect what kind of work you can do going forward.
Why Knee Injury Claims Get Denied
Insurance companies often challenge knee injury claims by arguing that the damage is due to a pre-existing condition, aging, or activities unrelated to work. They may point to prior imaging or old injuries as reasons to deny or reduce your benefits.
These are common tactics, and the facts do not always back them. Getting the right medical documentation and having our Queens workers’ comp attorneys who know how to respond to these arguments can make a substantial difference in your outcome.
Medical Benefits Your Employer Must Provide
Under NY WCL § 13, your employer’s workers’ comp insurer is required to pay for all medical treatment that is reasonable and necessary for your knee injury. That includes orthopedic evaluations, MRIs, surgery, physical therapy, and any prescribed assistive devices.
Sometimes treatment decisions require prior authorization from the insurer, and delays in that process can set back your recovery. If your doctor recommends a specific course of treatment, our firm can help make sure the insurer doesn’t drag its feet or deny coverage without a valid reason.
If your knee injury prevents you from working, wage replacement benefits under NY WCL § 15 may also be available, covering a portion of your lost income while you recover.
How We Fight for Your Full Recovery
Our firm works with Queens workers to build strong workers’ comp claims. We help gather medical evidence, respond to insurance company challenges, and make sure you receive the full range of benefits you’re entitled to. A knee injury can affect your ability to work for the rest of your life. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.
To take the next step, call 718-446-4400 or contact us online today.
