Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Bloomfield, NJ
When an employee goes to work, they rarely fear that they will become seriously injured while on the job. Even jobs that do have certain hazards take great safety measures to ensure that the workers don’t get hurt. If you have been injured on the job in New Jersey, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits through your employer. It may be beneficial to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can ensure that you are receiving all appropriate benefits and that your rights are represented. For strong legal representation after a workplace injury, contact the Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.
What is workers’ compensation?
Years ago, if an employee got hurt at work, they would have to sue their employer. As a result, they would often be fired and left with the overwhelming burden of medical expenses and lost wages. Luckily, the Division of Workers’ Compensation was later formed, which requires most employers to provide benefits for injured workers. With the enactment of these new laws, injured workers are no longer permitted to take legal action against their employer. Workers’ compensation is a form of “no-fault” insurance that provides immediate benefits for medical bills and lost wages as a result of an injury on the job.
Who is eligible for benefits?
The vast majority of workers in New Jersey are covered by workers’ compensation benefits, including domestic workers and farm workers. However, independent contractors are typically not covered. Certain employees, such as maritime workers, railroad workers, and federal employees, are covered under federal workers’ compensation laws instead of NJ laws. The benefits that you may be able to receive through workers’ compensation include the following:
- Medical benefits, as long as the injured worker seeks treatment from a carrier-approved provider. If an employer chooses a specific provider, the employee must utilize their services.
- Temporary disability benefits, which a worker is eligible for once they have been unable to work for at least seven days, including weekends and holidays.
- Permanent partial benefits, which will be classified as “scheduled” or “non-scheduled” losses.
- Permanent total benefits, which can provide up to 450 weeks of payments at 70 percent of the workers’ gross weekly wage at the time they were injured.
- Death benefits, which a surviving family member can seek and receive 70 percent of the weekly wage as well as up to $3,500 in funeral costs.
What should I do after an injury?
If you are injured at work, it is important to notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. It is important to be aware that your treatment for an injury will only be covered if it is administered by a medical provider that has been selected by the workers’ compensation insurance carrier. Once your employer has been notified, they should inform their insurance carrier that you have been injured. The insurance carrier, once aware of the situation, must file a First Report of Injury with the state.
Contact a NJ Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you have been injured on the job, we understand how frustrating it can be to be unable to work. Though you are covered under your employers’ workers’ compensation coverage, there are times when issues arise, including disputes and denials regarding the severity of your injury or the carrier’s obligation to pay out support. Having an attorney is quite important to protect your rights through the process. The Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. is ready to help guide you through your case, make sure all claims are filed properly, and handle any disputes that may arise. Contact our firm today.