Do Teaching Assistants get Workers Comp in NY?

Teaching assistants are particularly susceptible to several common workplace injuries due to the physical and supervisory nature of their role. These injuries include:

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Frequently lifting students, especially those with mobility issues, or performing repetitive tasks like moving classroom furniture can lead to muscle strain in the back, neck, and arms.
• Slip-and-Fall Accidents: Navigating crowded classrooms, hallways, and playgrounds, often while supervising children, increases the risk of slipping on wet floors or tripping over objects.
• Injuries from Student Interaction: Assisting special needs or behavioral students can result in injuries such as bites, scratches, or being accidentally hit during physical interventions or support.
• Overexertion: Prolonged standing, walking, or assisting with physically demanding tasks, like transferring students between classrooms or helping with physical education activities, can lead to fatigue, joint pain, and muscle overuse.
• Burns and Cuts: Assisting with activities involving sharp objects, school equipment, or cooking in classrooms, such as home economics, may expose teaching assistants to minor burns, cuts, or other accidents.

While teaching assistants face these risks, they may not receive the same workers’ compensation coverage as full-time teachers. For many, working as a teaching assistant is a stepping stone toward becoming a full-time teacher, providing essential classroom experience while working toward further education and certification.

Teaching assistants (TAs) in New York play a crucial role in supporting educational environments, but they can face significant challenges if they suffer job-related injuries and aren’t covered by Board of Education benefits. In these cases, Cass and Peters, renowned New York Workers’ Compensation lawyers, can provide invaluable assistance to ensure that TAs receive the compensation and support they deserve.

Firstly, Cass and Peters have extensive experience navigating the complexities of New York’s workers’ compensation system. They understand that TAs may face unique challenges, especially if they lack coverage from the Board of Education. If a TA is injured on the job, they might struggle with medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of not having adequate support. Cass and Peters can step in to help these individuals file a workers’ compensation claim, advocating on their behalf to ensure that they receive the benefits to which they are entitled.

Moreover, Cass and Peters are skilled in identifying and addressing the nuances of cases where traditional benefits might fall short. They can investigate alternative avenues for compensation, such as third-party claims if the injury resulted from negligence by another party, or seek additional support through disability benefits if needed. Their deep understanding of workers’ compensation law allows them to build a robust case, ensuring that all potential sources of compensation are explored.

Additionally, Cass and Peters offer personalized legal support, guiding TAs through every step of the claims process. They work to alleviate the burden of paperwork and legal complexities, providing clear communication and expert advice. This support is crucial for TAs who are already dealing with the physical and emotional strain of an injury.