Author Archives: Jay Butchko
New York Appeals Court Allows 9/11 Workers’ Compensation Claim To Proceed
Many people were affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York. Just under 3,000 people were killed in the attacks, with many others suffering from toxic exposure caused by being in the area. In fact, nearly 10,000 first responders from 9/11 now have cancer. A New York state trooper filed a workers’ compensation… Read More »
Can Inflammatory Bowel Disease Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits?
When you think of a disability, you may think of mobility issues, brain damage, loss of vision or hearing, and maybe even cancer. You may not think of medical conditions such as ulcerative colitis, but it is a condition that can be disabling for some people. In fact, it’s possible that you could even… Read More »
How Veterans Can Start Their Own Business
Veterans account for approximately 10% of businesses in the United States, so it’s obvious that former servicemembers have made an impact on this country’s entrepreneurship. However, starting a business is easier said than done. If you’re a veteran, the road to business ownership can be long and hard. It can be exciting but also… Read More »
Bus Driver Attacked On Lunch Break Denied Workers’ Compensation Benefits
In order for a person to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, they need to be injured while performing work duties. Even if they engage in life-saving acts while on the clock, and they become injured in the process, they won’t be eligible for any benefits. A New York bus driver is now aware… Read More »
Protecting Veterans Benefits from Scammers
Financial scams are on the rise. Every year, millions of people become victims of these scams. Many of these victims are the elderly. Because of this, many former servicemembers end up losing their veterans benefits because they don’t properly protect their personal and financial information. The Department of Veterans Affairs is aware of these… Read More »
COVID Long-Haulers Seeking Social Security Disability Benefits
The coronavirus has hit this country hard, with 32 million cases in the United States since last year. Of those, 570,000 have died. The remainder have recovered or are still dealing with the effects of the virus. While most people recover completely from the coronavirus, many do not. COVID-19 can ravage the body in… Read More »
Firefighter Killed During Training at Academy
Many of those in specialized occupations, such as police officers and firefighters, have to complete rigorous physical training. This training can be brutal, putting employees to the test. Unfortunately, some people die during this training after suffering medical emergencies. In these cases, workers’ compensation benefits may be available. A firefighter recently died during training… Read More »
Marijuana Legalization to Change Workers’ Compensation Laws
Although marijuana use is illegal under federal law, many states have legalized the drug for recreational use. New York is the most recent state to do so. Marijuana use is controversial in the workplace, though. While there is no evidence that the drug is addictive and can lead to death, it can cause impairment,… Read More »
How an SSDI Claim Can Bar an ADA Claim
If you’re unable to work due to a disability, is that your employer’s fault? Should they be sued for laying you off? One man did so even though he was deemed totally disabled by the Social Security Administration. The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim, however, barred him from filing a claim under the… Read More »
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Hearing Loss
When people think of workplace injuries, hearing loss does not often come to mind. However, it is a common issue in many industries, particularly construction, agriculture, manufacturing, mining and oil/gas extraction. Hearing loss occurs for two main reasons: loud noise and chemicals (such as solvents and nitriles). There are three types of hearing problems…. Read More »