Thais E. Rodriguez is a partner at Goldberg Segalla, where she focuses her practice on defending workers’ compensation claims, primarily in the construction industry. Unique among workers’ compensation attorneys, Thais brings a distinct perspective to her litigation approach, having previously represented injured workers before joining the firm. The experience has helped her create effective defense strategies and assess claims with a deeper understanding of both sides of the issue.

Specializing in construction-related claims, Thais has extensive familiarity with the complexities involved in defending Owner Controlled Insurance Program (OCIP) and Contractor Controlled Insurance Program (CCIP) policies. She understands how these policies function and the challenges that arise when defending them, making her well-equipped to handle the unique aspects of construction accident claims. Additionally, Thais has completed OSHA Construction Safety and Health 30-hour training certification, fine-tuning her skills in conducting onsite visits to assess evidence, interview witnesses, and gain a firsthand understanding of the environment and circumstances surrounding construction accidents.

Thais handles each case from inception through resolution, managing all aspects of the process. She represents employers, carriers, and contractors in construction-related accidents, addressing issues such as compensability, medical and legal causation, and fraud prevention. Thais develops and implements a strategy for each case, preparing witnesses, gathering and reviewing evidence, taking and reviewing medical depositions, managing investigations, drafting rebuttals and appeals, and negotiating settlements. Her comprehensive approach ensures efficient and effective representation, and her extensive experience has led to successful outcomes before the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.

Taking a team-focused approach to her practice, Thais prioritizes collaboration with all stakeholders involved, engaging all parties and maintaining open communication to deliver the best results for her clients.

Thais is an active member of the firm’s Workers’ Compensation and Construction Litigation groups and serves in a leadership role in the combined subgroup. She is also a key member of the firm’s Compensation and General Liability Joint Defense Program, where she collaborates with both workers’ compensation and general liability attorneys to provide clients with cost-efficient, comprehensive legal representation that addresses both the indemnity payout and legal costs. In addition to her legal work, Thais serves as a mentor to associates at the firm, providing guidance and support to help them grow in their careers and develop their skills in workers’ compensation and construction litigation.