What You Should Know About Workplace Accidents in New Jersey

Workplace accidents can be serious. If you were hurt on the job, you can be facing severe physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Continue reading to learn more about your options and speak with one of our Essex County workers’ compensation attorneys.

What legal options does an individual have after a workplace accident?

In the event that an employee is injured at work, he or she may be entitled to financial compensation. Workers’ compensation is insurance that the majority of employers are required to have in case their employees get injured on the job. Most workers in New Jersey are covered by this insurance. This involves domestic workers and farmworkers. But, independent contractors are not typically protected. The purpose of workers’ compensation is so employees do not lose their jobs if they are hurt on the job. Through the compensation, they are able to collect benefits that aid them while they are unable to work. The recovered damages can cover medical bills, lost wages, and any lost future wages. In addition to this, employees may have the right to other benefits including:

  • Medical care
  • Supplemental benefits
  • Social security benefits
  • Death benefits
  • Long term benefits in the event that they are no longer able to work

What steps should an injured employee take after the accident?

If an employee is injured at work, it is critical that they report the accident to their employer immediately. Once the claim is filed, the individual may obtain temporary total disability payments if they are unable to go back to work after the accident. The claim will be analyzed to determine whether or not the individual and their injury are covered under New Jersey’s Workers’ Compensation Laws. It is important to recognize that, when a conclusion is reached, both parties have the right to appeal the decision.

To learn more about this process or other options after workplace accidents, reach out to our skilled firm today. Our legal team is on your side.

Who can be held responsible for a workplace injury?

If an individual is injured at work, they may be able to sue their employer to hold them liable. However, this can create a stressful work environment. Instead of going after an employer for compensation, workers’ compensation is available to employees. When this occurs, neither the employee or employer is held responsible for any injuries.

This protects both parties involved, because employees are not able to pursue legal action against an employer if they are receiving workers’ compensation. But, the circumstances can change if a third party was involved in the accident.

Contact our Experienced New Jersey Firm

If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.