For those who survived the attack that occurred on September 11, 2001, it's impossible to forget the thousands of lives lost, the horrors endured, or the suffering encountered. Thankfully, there's compensation available for those who have cancer and other diseases associated with the attack.
The VCF, or Victim Compensation Fund, was started in 2019, and eligible victims may file claims until October 1, 2090. If you're wondering whether you're eligible for compensation under the Victim Compensation Fund because of your cancer, visit 911cancerclaim.com and read on to learn how to maximize your claim.
Becoming Eligible for VCF Compensation
To gain compensation from the fund, a person's injuries must be caused by the plane crashes that occurred on 9/11, or the cleanup, recovery, and rescue efforts immediately afterward. The World Trade Center Health Program certifies these conditions, of which cancer is one of the most common. Claimants can complete their applications online or by mail.
If a victim has not yet been deemed disabled, the Victim Compensation Fund may accept their application based on a physician's detailed examination. In some cases, the fund may allow an evaluation by the World Trade Center Health Program. To qualify, victims must be enrolled in the program and not have a determination from workers' compensation, insurance, NYPD, FDNY, or Social Security.
Learn About the Review Process to Maximize Your Payout
When a victim meets the fund's eligibility criteria and their cancer is proven to have been caused by the 9/11 terrorist attacks, their claim is reviewed. During the review, these questions are asked and answered.
- Was there a measurable loss?
- Did the loss occur because of a covered condition?
- Will a positive ruling make sense under this case's circumstances?
When these questions ae answered, your attorney will then figure out what kind of compensation you may be able to receive.
Getting Compensated for Cancer-Related Economic Losses
When living with cancer after 9/11, economic losses are the simplest to quantify. The calculation is complex, though, with past and future earnings losses being a common worry. The courts will consider numerous factors when determining compensation, including whether you can work.
To prove an inability to work, a victim may need a determination of related disability from a private insurer, workers' compensation, or Social Security. They'll also need information about their benefits and earnings, as well as medical records outlining their certified condition. NYPD, FDNY, and military claimants may need different documentation.
Economic losses are capped at $200,000 a year, with lost earnings awards being offset by private insurance, Social Security, and pensions. We'll work to get you the maximum amount to which you are entitled.
Being Compensated for Non-Economic Damages
The Victim Compensation Fund awards money for non-economic losses related to 9/11 cancer claims, including pain and suffering. These awards can be maximized by providing evidence of the cancer's effects on daily activities, which include the ability to walk, feeding oneself, dressing, grooming, and toileting. It's also possible to increase an award by providing proof of chemotherapy or surgery. Along with the physical suffering and pain you've endured, the fund may also provide an award based on loss of companionship, mental anguish, and other factors.
Work With an Experienced Attorney to Maximize Your Claim
Every award given by the Victim Compensation Fund is determined individually, with the final amount including economic losses, non-economic damages, and offsets. It's still possible to maximize an award if you have cancer because of the events of 9/11. Our attorneys will meet deadlines, follow proper procedures, and look for all potential sources of compensation. Visit us online or call today to schedule a consultation.
