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Knowing your rights after a work injury in New Jersey

On Behalf of | Aug 15, 2014 | Workers' Compensation

Generally, if you were injured in the course of your employment in New Jersey, then you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation insurance shields employers from injury lawsuits filed by employees. However, if negligence on the part of a third-party — for example, a tool manufacturer or another company working on a construction site — caused the injury, then the injured worker can sue the third party for damages.

Workers’ compensation covers the following expenses:

  • medical bills
  • loss of income
  • rehabilitation
  • expenses incurred while travelling to and from medical appointments
  • vocational training if you are unable to return to your previous job
  • costs related to temporary and permanent disability

Unfortunately, some employers and their insurers try to take advantage of workers and deny benefits for legitimate, work-related injuries. An initial denial of workers’ compensation benefits does not necessarily mean that you are not entitled to them. You may just need someone to help build your claim and fight on your behalf.

To make an effective work injury claim, evidence has to be organized. Such evidence includes documentation of any and all medical treatment you’ve received in connection with your work-related injury. Often workers need to see a specialist to be properly diagnosed and treated.

In most cases, a work-related injury is sudden and unexpected. However, occupational diseases develop over time. Legal claims regarding illnesses such as asbestosis or mesothelioma require extensive medical evidence, and workers or their families will need help building their cases for compensation.

Our workers’ compensation overview has more on legal matters related to work-related injuries and illnesses.