Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
Corrections officers face risks that most workers do not encounter. Assaults, slip and fall hazards in older facilities, exposure to infectious disease, and injuries from restraining individuals can all occur on the job.
If you were hurt while working, a corrections officer injury lawyer in Orangetown can help you pursue the benefits that may be available. Shulman & Hill represents corrections officers and public-sector workers throughout Orangetown and Rockland County.
Our workers’ compensation lawyers in Orangetown understand that these cases differ from standard workplace claims. Public employees in New York have specific rights and benefit systems, and managing those claims while recovering from an injury can be difficult. Our team works to handle that process so you can focus on recovery.
How Corrections Officers Get Hurt on the Job
Correctional facilities present unique risks due to the nature of the work and environment. Common causes of corrections officer injuries include:
- Inmate assaults: Physical attacks such as punching, kicking, biting, or use of improvised weapons
- Use-of-force incidents: Injuries during restraint or control situations
- Slip and fall hazards: Wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor maintenance
- Overexertion injuries: Strain from lifting, restraining, or repetitive tasks
- Exposure risks: Contact with bloodborne pathogens or infectious diseases
- Equipment failures: Malfunctioning doors, restraints, or safety systems
If a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or maintenance provider contributed to the injury, a third-party claim may be possible in addition to workers’ compensation. To learn more, contact an Orangetown personal injury lawyer for guidance on your claim.
Common Injuries in Corrections Officer Cases
The physical demands and safety risks of corrections work can lead to serious injuries. Some occur suddenly during a single incident, while others develop over time due to repeated strain or ongoing exposure to hazardous conditions.
Common injuries include:
- Soft tissue injuries: Back, neck, and shoulder strain from lifting, physical altercations, or repetitive movement during daily duties
- Fractures: Broken bones resulting from falls, use-of-force situations, or inmate assaults
- Head injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries caused by blows to the head, falls, or violent encounters
- Joint damage: Torn ligaments, cartilage injuries, and chronic joint instability from restraint situations or sudden movements
- Psychological conditions: Post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression following violent incidents or repeated exposure to high-stress situations
- Hearing loss: Gradual damage from prolonged exposure to loud, enclosed environments such as correctional facilities
Psychological injuries may qualify for benefits under New York workers’ compensation law when supported by appropriate medical documentation and a clear connection to workplace events.
Your Rights as a Public Employee Under New York Workers’ Compensation
Corrections officers in New York are generally covered by workers’ compensation for injuries that arise out of and during employment. This includes both physical injuries and certain occupational or psychological conditions tied to the job.
Benefits may include:
- Medical care: Coverage for necessary treatment related to the work injury, including doctor visits, hospital care, therapy, medications, and ongoing rehabilitation
- Wage replacement: Partial income benefits if you are unable to work while recovering or are placed on restricted duty
- Temporary or permanent disability benefits: Compensation based on the severity and duration of your condition, including awards for lasting impairment
- Coverage for occupational conditions: Benefits for illnesses or conditions that develop over time, including exposure-related injuries or work-related psychological conditions, when properly documented
- Vocational rehabilitation, when applicable: Assistance with retraining or job placement if you cannot return to your previous role
You do not need to prove employer fault to receive these benefits. The primary issue is whether your injury is work-related and supported by medical evidence.
Our corrections officer injury lawyers in Orangetown can also evaluate whether a third-party claim may apply. If another party, such as a contractor, equipment provider, or outside vendor, contributed to your injury, you may be able to pursue compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits.
Disability and Pension Benefits for Injured Corrections Officers
In addition to workers’ compensation, injured corrections officers in New York may have access to disability retirement benefits through systems such as the New York State and Local Retirement System or other applicable plans.
In some cases, officers who are permanently disabled due to a work-related incident may qualify for accidental disability retirement benefits. These claims follow separate procedures and timelines from workers’ compensation.
Coordinating these benefits requires careful review of eligibility requirements and documentation.
About Shulman & Hill
Shulman & Hill has recovered over $1 billion for injured workers and accident victims since 2013. The firm has represented thousands of clients and brings over 200 years of combined legal experience.
We handle investigations, gather records, and build claims based on the available evidence. Our team represents public employees, including corrections officers, throughout New York.
Talk to an Orangetown Corrections Officer Injury Lawyer Today
Deadlines may apply to workers’ compensation claims, disability applications, and any potential third-party cases. Early action can help preserve evidence and clarify your options.
Contact Shulman & Hill to schedule a free consultation. We can review your situation, explain your rights under New York law, and help you determine the next steps.