Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola Blog

Firm Moves Case Out From Under Bankruptcy Stay

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Years ago, we started a lawsuit against General Motors Corporation and Island Chevrolet on behalf of a family injured in a single-car accident. The client’s car was brought into Island for service regarding the rack and pinion steering on their SUV. Apparently, a part was installed upside down into the steering mechanism. After the SUV was driven for about 1 mile, the pin fell out, causing all steering to be lost. The SUV crashed into a pole and fire hydrant, causing the occupants to suffer significant injuries.
We filed suit on the occupants behalf against Island Chevrolet for negligence in their repair of the steering mechanism and against General Motors for improperly training the mechanics, known as Goodwrench certified mechanics. At our first court appearance after the filing of the complaint, General Motors announced that they were declaring bankruptcy. Since GM was such a huge company, and the government had an interest in allowing GM to emerge from bankruptcy as quickly as possible, all the liabilities were left in a company called Motors Liquidation Company. This “company” held all the personal injury claims against GM. There was even talk about dismissing all personal injury claims until a group of lawyers representing those people severely injured or killed by GM products spoke out and stopped that idea.
What the bankruptcy filing did was to delay thousands of cases across the United States for years, without any hope of a quick resolution. When a company files for bankruptcy, no action can be taken against without an order of the court. All proceedings, regardless of the injuries involved, stop until the company emerges from bankruptcy. Recently, Motors Liquidation Company proposed a “take it or leave it” solution to the bankruptcy stay. The company “offered” $1,000 to settle individual claims against it, regardless of the injuries. The claimant would be able to counteroffer and if the counteroffer was refused, binding mediation would result. If a claimant refused to agree to those demands, the case would be lumped in with thousands of other unsecured claims for possibly years to come before any resolution.
After today’s meeting with the clients, we agreed to submit a counteroffer and submit to binding arbitration if the counteroffer is not accepted. So for the clients, after years of waiting for their case to be resolved, there is some light at the end of the tunnel.

Firm Settles Case on For Direct Selection of a Jury

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, we settled a case involving an elderly woman who tripped and fell on her way to the doctor's office. The case presented some unique legal questions as two seperate property owners were involved, as well as the City of New York. The location where the plaintiff tripped and fell was in front of a private house next to the parking lot of a medical center. When the client came to our office and told us how the accident happened, we knew that the City of New York may be involved as the case involved a broken sidewalk.

Once we know that a sidewalk is involved, we file a notice of claim with the Comptroller of the City within 90 days after the fall. Although discovery later revealed that the City of New York was not responsible, a Notice of Claim must still be filed. Once the 90 day time frame passes, it is very difficult to file a Notice of Claim without seeking approval from the court. Such approval is not often given without special circumstances. If we didn't file the Notice of Claim and we found out months later that the City of New York was responsible, we would be unable to bring a lawsuit and be unable to recover money for our client's injuries.

Ultimately, the City of New York was not responsible for the sidewalk as the home bordering the sidewalk was rented out. If the owner does not occupy the home and instead rents out the property for profit, the law states that he or she is responsible for injuries someone sustains on the sidewalk in the front of their home. We agreed to let the City of New York out of the case for $1500 and go after the remaining two defendants.

We discovered that a house used to stand on the parking lot for the medical center. When the defendant built the medical center, the house was demolished and a new sidewalk was poured all around the property. Instead of the new sidewalk ending with the property line, the new concrete was extended about 5 feet onto the adjoining property. It may have seemed like the neighborly thing to do at the time but years later, after the ground settled, it created a defetive sidewalk. Depending on how you look at it, the sidewalk in front of the house was either raised or sunken.

This case wasn't an ideal case to try as the plaintiff was very nervous about getting onto the witness stand. We tried our best to negotiate a settlement but since both the home owner and the medical center were pointing the finger of blame at each other, neither would offer any money.

Both eventually moved for summary judgment, asking the court to be let out of the case as they claimed they couldnt be held responsible. The judge denied the motion and the case was scheduled for a trial in January. When a definite trial date is set, insurance companies begin to take extra effort to try to settle the case. At a mediation, the case settled for $80,000 with both the property owner and the medical center each paying the plaintiff $40,000 for her injuries. They finally accepted their responsibiloity for causing the plaintiff to trip and fall.

Driver and Pedestrians Urged to be Careful as City Expects First Snow

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The tri-state area is expecting the first significant snowfall of 2012 this weekend. I urge residents of Staten Island and Brooklyn to be careful driving and while walking outside. As the snow begins to fall, and before the salt trucks make it out onto the road, drivers are urged to take caution as the roads may be slippery, causing spinouts and traffic accidents. Allow enough time for you to reach your intended destination, wear a seatlbelt and reduce your speed according to the weather conditions. Gently apply the brakes and dont expect to stop like you would if the streets were dry.

When walking, wear proper shoes as ice can quickly accumulate onto sidewalks, Snow covers holes or broken concrete on the sidewalks, making them hazardous while walking. Broken bones and lower back injuries are all too common when the sidewalk becomes slippery.

Please be careful while driving and walking around your neighborhood tonight and tomorrow night. Snow and ice, especially black ice, and even shoveling, leads to many emergency rooms visits during the winter months. If you can avoid travelling, stay inside and enjoy the snowfall.

City of New York Modifies 911 System for Snake Hill Road

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The City of New York has modified the "911" system to recognize "Snake Hill Road", as it is commonly known on Staten Island. The notoriously dangerous stretch of roadway, which winds up the hill towards LaTourette golf course, is officially known as Richmond Hill Road. Despite the frequency of calls to 911 relating to the all-too-common car accidents that occur on the roadway almost daily, some 911 operators failed to recognize the roadway by its common name, causing a delay in providing emergency help to the accident.

Symptoms of Autism That May Qualify for Social Security Disability in New York

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Severe limitations of autistic disorders could qualify someone to receive Social Security disability in New York. To learn what your loved one's rights are when it comes to disability benefits, you should consult with a Staten Island disability lawyer.

For an individual with an autistic disorder to qualify for Social Security disability, there must be significant deficits with social interactions, communication and other daily functioning skills.

Autism Signs for Social Security Disability in New York

When you see these symptoms of autism, they may qualify for Social Security Disability:

hand flapping;
rocking;
head rolling;
compulsive behaviors;
ritualistic behaviors;
limited focus, interest and activities; and
self-injury.

These are just some of the symptoms that may indicate a need for Social Security disability. In order to qualify, you also will need medical documentation that demonstrates that these severe limitations exist.

If you are pursuing Social Security disability in New York for autistic disorders, you would benefit from getting legal counsel help. You should speak immediately with a Staten Island disability lawyer to learn what you can expect in the process of seeking benefits and what types of medical evidence will be necessary.

Contacting a Staten Island Disability Lawyer

Before you file your Social Security disability claim in Staten Island, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Staten Island disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

7 Intellectual Disability Impairments That May Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

When your loved one is unable to work as a result of mental retardation or another form of intellectual disability, then you may be wondering if they are entitled to receive Social Security disability benefits. Know that you have the chance to speak with an attorney at your Brooklyn disability law firm who can take the time to sit down with you and discuss pursuing a claim.

7 Intellectual Disability Impairments for Social Security Disability Benefits

If your child falls under one of these impairments, seek your attorney to pursue a claim for disability benefits.

autistic disorder/other pervasive development disorders;
schizophrenia/other psychotic disorders;
substance abuse/addiction disorder;
affective disorders (bipolar, manic depression);
personality disorder;
anxiety-related; and
somatoform disorders (panic disorder).

There are specific criteria that must be met as set under Social Security Administration's (SSA) listing of impairments. The above medical conditions do not automatically guarantee an individual eligibility.

Obtaining Social Security disability benefits as a result of mental retardation or intellectual disability can be a challenge, which is why you would benefit from the help of a Brooklyn disability law firm. They can help you with the initial application or with appealing a claim that has been denied.

Contacting a Brooklyn Disability Law Firm

Before you file your Social Security disability claim in Brooklyn, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Brooklyn Social Security disability attorney at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

How Anxiety Disorder Can Restrict Filing for Disability in New York

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you suffer from an anxiety disorder that significantly affects your quality of life, then you could be entitled to take action in filing for disability in New York. It may feel like an overwhelming process, however with the help of Bronx Social Security disability lawyers you can have the assurance of someone working on your behalf.

While anxiety disorder is not an uncommon psychological impairment, it can become severe enough that it would lead to the need for Social Security. To qualify you will need to meet Social Security Administration's (SSA) criteria.

Proving Anxiety Disorder When Filing for Disability in New York

One of the components to qualify for Social Security is proving that your condition significantly limits your social, personal and work life:

you are unable to handle changes in a work setting;
you have difficulty with movements such as walking, lifting, carrying, pulling;
you are not able to handle common interpersonal situations with co-workers or employer; and
you are unable to understand or carry out basic instructions.

If you plan on filing for disability in New York because you have a severe anxiety disorder, then you should speak first with Bronx Social Security disability lawyers. They can determine if you qualify and should proceed with your claim.

Contacting Bronx Social Security Disability Lawyers

Before you file your Social Security disability claim in New York, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact Bronx Social Security disability lawyers at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

3 Ways to Prepare for Social Security Disability Hearing in New York

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

You should seek counsel from a disability lawyer in Staten Island if your claim for benefits was denied and you are now facing a Social Security disability hearing in New York. A lawyer can explain the types of things you will need and what you can expect to happen throughout the entire process.

3 Ways You Can Prepare for Social Security Disability Hearing in New York

Before your hearing you should:

collect all of the medical evidence that will demonstrate the severity of your medical condition and the resulting impairments;
bring a list of all the jobs you have held and a description of your job duties for the past 15 years; and
secure legal help from a lawyer who specializes in Social Security law.

There is a lot of work in preparing for a hearing but putting in the extra effort is worth it when it can increase your chance at a favorable outcome.

Preparing for a Social Security disability hearing in New York can feel like an overwhelming process. However, with the help of a disability lawyer in Staten Island, you can feel better about knowing ahead of time what to expect and what you need in order to better prepare for your hearing.

Contacting a Disability Lawyer in Staten Island

Before you file your Social Security disability claim in New York, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Staten Island Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

6 Steps in Filing a Social Security Disability Claim in New York

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

While your disability may seem obvious, it doesn't necessarily guarantee you will qualify for benefits. Filing a Social Security disability claim in New York can be very challenging. This is why it may be in your best interest to secure legal help from a Staten Island Social Security disability attorney.

6 Steps to File a Social Security Disability Claim in New York

Initial Application - Social Security Administration determines which disability program for which you are eligible;
Medical Determination - a medical determination is made on your claim;
Reconsideration - if your initial claim is denied, you may file for it to be reconsidered;
Hearing - if the request for reconsideration is denied, you may appeal your claim and request a hearing;
Appeals Council - if the hearing does not result in a favorable outcome, you may then make an appeal to the Appeals Council; and
Federal Appeals - this is the final step if your claim is denied by the Appeals Council.

Each step in itself can be very time-consuming and complicated, which is why you should enlist the help of an experienced attorney.

New York residents should know what to expect when it comes to the Social Security disability claims process. A Staten Island Social Security disability attorney can help.

Contacting a Staten Island Social Security Disability Attorney

Before you file your Social Security disability claim in New York, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Staten Island Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

How Endocrine Disorders May Be Evaluated Under Other Social Security Disability Listings

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you plan on filing a Social Security disability claim in New York and you have been diagnosed with an endocrine disorder, you should know that this condition has been removed from the listing of impairments. A Brooklyn Social Security disability attorney can explain how this may affect your case.

With earlier detection and advances in treatment, many individuals with endocrine disorders are able to continue functioning on a daily basis; however, your condition could still be evaluated under another listing, which may then qualify you for disability benefits.

Symptoms and problems that are associated with an endocrine disorder may also fall under another listing. For instance, if your condition led to an amputation (as a result of complications from diabetes), then you may be evaluated under musculoskeletal disorders.

If you suffer from diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease resulting from diabetes), then you may be evaluated under genitourinary listings. Since there are other ways to evaluate your condition, you should consult your case with an attorney before filing a Social Security disability claim in New York.

When there are important updates to Social Security disability listings, this can significantly affect your ability to obtain benefits. To fully understand your rights and to learn if you qualify to receive disability benefits, you should speak with a Brooklyn Social Security disability attorney.

Contacting a Brooklyn Social Security Disability Attorney

Before you file your Social Security disability claim in New York, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

5 Medical Disorders That May Lead to SSDI Eligibility

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The diagnosis of a severe medical condition may lead to SSDI eligibility. Understand the process of applying for benefits can be difficult, which is why it may be beneficial to first speak with a Bronx Social Security disability lawyer.

There are a number of medical disorders that could potentially qualify an individual for Social Security disability benefits; however, it must be demonstrated that there are severe limitations in functioning and/or an inability to work.

5 Medical Disorders That May Lead to SSDI Eligibility

autoimmune disorders (multiple sclerosis, lupus);
digestive system disorders (hepatitis, liver disease);
mental disorders (schizophrenia, post traumatic stress disorder);
bone, joint & tissue disorders (fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis); and
neurological disorders (seizure disorder, neuropathy).

These are just some of the disorders and underlying medical conditions that could lead an individual to file a claim for Social Security disability benefits. If you suffer from severe limitations in your functioning that prevent you from working, then your income may be offset with social security disability benefits.

Bronx residents should know how SSDI eligibility is determined. A Bronx Social Security disability lawyer can help you. Consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible is in your best interests.

Contacting a Bronx Social Security Disability Lawyer

Before you file your Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Bronx Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

Social Security Disability Benefits for Malignant Neoplastic Diseases

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

You may qualify for Social Security disability benefits if you have been diagnosed with a severe condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months. Additionally, if a condition is terminal, then it also may qualify. A Bronx Social Security disability attorney can evaluate your case.

One type of condition that may be covered by disability benefits is malignant neoplastic diseases. This is a condition in which a malignant growth or tumor exists, sometimes spreading to other areas of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.

When this condition is evaluated for eligibility, several factors are taken into consideration, including where the malignancy originated and the extent of involvement in the body's functioning.

Antineoplastic therapy is also part of the evaluation, as far as the duration, frequency and response to it, including:

hormones;
surgery;
immunotherapy;
irradiation;
stem cell transplantation;
chemotherapy; and
bone marrow transplantation.

Also evaluated are any post-therapeutic residuals.

Your next step should be to seek legal counsel from a Bronx Social Security disability attorney if you have questions concerning your benefits eligibility for malignant neoplastic diseases. An attorney can help assemble the documentation and medical records that will help in your case and increase your chances of a favorable outcome in pursuing Social Security disability benefits.

Contacting a Bronx Social Security Disability Attorney

Before you file your Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Bronx Social Security disability attorney at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

How Down Syndrome Can Lead to NY Social Security Disability Claims

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Some disabling conditions, such as Down syndrome, affect multiple body systems. Due to the seriousness of these conditions, individuals may be eligible to receive benefits through Social Security disability claims in NY by consulting with Long Island disability lawyers.

Down syndrome is a debilitating condition. It occurs when there are 3 copies of chromosome 21 present in cells as opposed to the normal 2 copies. This extra chromosomal material affects the development of the body and brain overall. Characteristics of Down syndrome include late physical development and varying levels of mental retardation.

Types of Down Syndrome

Non-mosaic Down syndrome - chromosome 21 affects every cell throughout the body. This occurs in 98% of people who have Down syndrome.
Mosaic Down syndrome - only some cells within the body are affected with an extra copy of chromosome 21.

Down syndrome affects multiple systems within the body including mental, neurological and skeletal systems. Furthermore, it can lead to impaired vision, hearing impairment and heart disease.

If you fall under any of these categories you should apply for Social Security disability claims in NY. If you need help obtaining benefits or filing a claim, talk with a Long Island disability lawyer.

Contacting Long Island Disability Lawyers

Before you file Social Security disability claims in NY and Long Island, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a New York Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

Category of Neurological Impairments for a Brooklyn Social Security Disability Claim

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The Social Security Administration (SSA) may provide Social Security disability benefits if you suffer from a neurological condition that has resulted in permanent disability. When you are no longer able to work, disability benefits can help offset some of the income you are now without.

A Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer will work with you through the entire process of applying for Social Security disability benefits. This includes the complicated paperwork and collecting evidence to prove the extent of your disability.

Social Security Disability Benefits: Neurological Impairments

The following categories of neurological impairments may qualify you for Social Security disability benefits:

convulsive epilepsy;
non-convulsive epilepsy;
Parkinson's disease;
central nervous system vascular accident;
spinal cord or nerve root lesions;
cerebral palsy;
multiple sclerosis;
anterior poliomyelitis;
myasthenia gravis;
peripheral neuropathies;
subacute combined cord degeneration;
Huntington's disease;
syringomyelia;
muscular dystrophy;
cerebral trauma;
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; and
benign brain tumors.

Each listing of impairment also has specific criteria that must be met in order for you to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

If you need clarification on your eligibility, a Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer can explain how a neurological disorder may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

Contacting a Brooklyn Social Security Disability Lawyer

Before you file your Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help with building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

4 Ways Mental Illness is Assessed in a New York Social Security Disability Case

Fri, 20 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you have been diagnosed with a mental disorder you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. You should immediately consult with a Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer who can help determine your eligibility.

There are 4 ways a mental disorder is assessed in a New York Social Security disability case:

Activities of daily living - whether you are able to competently handle activities such as shopping, cleaning, personal grooming and hygiene.
Social functioning - the ability to appropriately and effectively interact with family, friends, neighbors and others with whom you come into contact.
Concentration, pace or persistence - do you have the ability to sustain focused concentration and attention for work-related tasks.
Episodes of decompensation - in other words, the inability to maintain defense mechanisms in response to stress which then require increased treatment or removal from the situation.

Within each of these 4 areas of assessments are certain criteria that must be met. A Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if you meet the criteria.

If you are a New York resident suffering with a mental disorder you may be able to receive Social Security disability benefits. A Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer can help with your case.

Contacting a Brooklyn Social Security Disability Lawyer

Before you file your Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Brooklyn Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help in building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

How a New York Resident Should Respond to a Social Security Disability Appointment Letter

Fri, 06 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you are a New York resident who has applied for Social Security disability benefits, you may receive a Social Security disability appointment letter. While you can receive different types of correspondence from the administration office, there are 2 most commonly received letters.

The first type of Social Security disability appointment letter you may receive is one requesting a medical examination. You are required to undergo a medical examination to help determine if your medical condition meets the qualifications for disability benefits.

The second type of Social Security disability appointment letter you may receive is one telling you when your hearing date is scheduled. Make certain you note this date, and make arrangements to attend.

You should know your response to any type of Social Security disability appointment letter is vital. No matter the purpose of your letter, you not only must respond, but you must do so as quickly as possible.

Read the instructions carefully to understand what is expected of you, what instructions you are being given and what paperwork you may need. Too many claimants fail to respond, which can put a claim at risk.

If you have any questions concerning Social Security disability appointment letters you may receive, consult with a Bronx Social Security disability lawyer.

Contacting a Bronx Social Security Disability Lawyer

Before you file your Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Bronx Social Security disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help in building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

Brooklyn Residents Can Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits Online

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

One of the most time consuming and complex things to go through is the application process for Social Security disability benefits. With the help of a Brooklyn disability lawyer, you can gain a better understanding of what you need to do in order to help the process along.

One of the ways you can do this is to apply for Social Security disability benefits online. This is the best way to get an immediate start on your claim.

To finish the online application process for Social Security disability benefits, you must do the following:

complete the Adult Disability Checklist;
collect supporting documents and papers;
complete the Disability Benefit Application;
fill out and sign the Authorization to Disclose Information; and
mail or take this last form to the local SSA office.

Applying online can expedite the process, enable you to do it from the comfort of your own home and avoid numerous trips to the SSA office.

Since there is so much more to the application process for Social Security disability benefits, you should seek the legal counsel of a Brooklyn disability lawyer. A lawyer can help you correctly complete your paperwork, efficiently collect documentation or assist with a denied claim.

Contacting a Brooklyn Disability Lawyer

Before you file your Social Security disability claim, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a Brooklyn disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help in building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.

New York City Schools Get PCB Removal Offers from Private Firms

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A few weeks ago the New York City Board of Education announced that the removal of PCBs in New York City schools would be a 10 year $708 million dollar project which many criticized. New York City's criticized plan from the beginning seemed by many to be projected at too high of a cost and too long of a wait. A 10 year project would mean an exposure of potentially dangerous levels of PCBs for a large amount of New York City public school children. The project in many people's minds should be done as quickly as possible to minimize exposure to PCBs for students and teachers as much as possible.

Private firms have stepped forward recently with plans they have come up on their own. These plans have come from different firms in New York City and the surrounding area and consist of plans to do the job in as little as 2 to 3 years. A shorter project would mean less prolonged exposure and could in turn decrease the chances of students and teachers experiencing health problems in the future. Some of the offers from the private firms include one firm who said they would absorb the upfront cost to do the project and would only ask in return that the New York City schools give the private firm whatever amount the schools save from having new energy efficient lights installed for three years. They believe that they could recover the cost of the project in three years of energy saving the school would be making.

NY Disability Claims: 4 Steps of the Disability Appeals Process

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you have filed a disability claim for Social Security disability benefits and received a letter of denial, you still have options at your disposal to successfully win your disability benefits.

When appealing a denied disability claim, your best resource is an experienced New York disability appeals attorney who can help you prepare your evidence and arguments for the disability appeals process.

Your first step is to let the Social Security Administration (SSA) know that you are appealing your disability denial within 60 days of receiving your denial letter. This will result in a "reconsideration" of your claim by SSA workers who were not involved in your previous denial decision. Your attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence and paperwork to present for your reconsideration.

If your reconsideration does not result in approval for disability benefits, the next step is a hearing with an administrative law judge. During this appeals hearing you can testify, present witnesses, and even call medical experts to the stand to speak in your defense. Your New York disability appeals attorney will be a major asset during this process.

If your disability claim is denied at the administrative law hearing, you may still be able to fight for compensation by requesting a hearing in the Social Security Administration's appeals court. If that too results in a denial, you and your attorney may be able to file a lawsuit in Federal court.

Each step of the disability appeals process contains its own challenges that are best faced alongside an experienced New York disability appeals attorney.

Contacting a New York Disability Appeals Attorney

Before you file your Social Security disability claim appeal, be sure to take advantage of this free consumer's guide: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Social Security Disability Claim. Contact a New York disability lawyer at Decker, Decker, Dito & Internicola for help in building your disability claim - 1-800-976-4904.