New York Court Upheld Heart Attack Benefits
A carpenter who suffered a cardiac event during physical exertion secured workers compensation coverage.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Heart Disease
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A New York appeals court has ruled that a carpenter is entitled to workers compensation benefits after suffering a heart attack while restraining a donkey. The decision confirms that his medical claim is covered, reversing an earlier denial.
Why it matters
This case underscores how physical exertion in unexpected workplace tasks can be legally recognized as a source of compensable injury. It highlights the importance of timely administrative filings by insurers when contesting medical claims.
The Appellate Division, Third Department, issued a formal ruling in Matter of Mulligan v. Moy Construction Corp. confirming the claim. The court determined that the claimant's medical evidence, which linked physical exertion to his heart attack, supported the eligibility for benefits.
The players
Gerard Mulligan
The carpenter whose heart attack and subsequent claim were the subject of the court's review.
Moy Construction Corp.
The employer who directed the worker to handle an animal, leading to the physical incident.
Appellate Division, Third Department
The New York state court that adjudicated the final ruling on the worker's medical benefits.
The details
The claimant, Gerard Mulligan, experienced chest pain and vomiting after a supervisor directed him to restrain a loose donkey near a construction site. While the original judge denied the application, the Workers' Compensation Board later established the claim. The final court ruling was cemented because the insurer failed to file a timely contest, effectively barring them from disputing the link between the physical effort and the heart attack.
Timeline
October 8, 2026: New York appeals court upheld the workers compensation coverage decision.
Health Landscape
This decision clarifies the intersection of workplace tasks and cardiac health under the New York Workers' Compensation Law. It demonstrates how legal and medical definitions of occupational injury rely on strict procedural compliance.
If you experience symptoms like chest pain or lightheadedness during strenuous activity at work, seek medical attention immediately and consult a physician about the connection between your symptoms and your tasks. It is also important to understand your local state guidelines regarding how and when occupational injuries are documented.
The takeaway
The takeaway is that prompt medical documentation is essential when linking a cardiovascular event to specific physical activities. If you face an acute health crisis while working, ensure that both your physician and employer receive timely, accurate reports of the event to preserve your rights.
Further reading
Learn more about occupational risk and cardiovascular events in our Heart Disease section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Business Insurance.
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