If you’ve been injured on the job in New Jersey, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and the protections available under state law. Workplace injuries can lead to serious physical, emotional, and financial stress—but knowing your rights can help you recover more quickly and avoid unnecessary hardships. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essentials of workers’ compensation, when to contact a workers’ comp lawyer in NJ, and what workplace accident benefits you may be entitled to.
What Is Workers’ Compensation in New Jersey?
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In New Jersey, nearly every employer is required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
Key protections include:
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Medical treatment for your injury or illness
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Temporary disability benefits if you’re unable to work while recovering
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Permanent disability benefits for long-term impairments
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Death benefits to surviving dependents if a work-related injury results in death
These benefits are provided regardless of who was at fault for the injury, but you generally cannot sue your employer directly (with limited exceptions).
Your Rights After a Workplace Injury in NJ
Here’s what you should know immediately after a workplace accident:
1. Right to Medical Care
You are entitled to receive all necessary and reasonable medical treatment. However, your employer (or their insurance company) has the right to choose the doctor, so don’t go to your own provider without prior authorization unless it’s an emergency.
2. Right to File a Workers’ Comp Claim
You have the right to file a workers' compensation claim with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation. Even if your employer downplays the injury, you are legally entitled to report it and seek compensation.
3. Right to Temporary Disability Benefits
If your authorized doctor says you cannot work for more than 7 days, you may be eligible for temporary total disability benefits—typically 70% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum set by the state each year.
4. Right to Legal Representation
You have the right to consult a workers’ comp lawyer in NJ. In fact, it’s wise to do so if your claim is denied, delayed, or undervalued—or if your employer retaliates against you.
5. Right to Be Free from Retaliation
It is illegal for an employer to fire, demote, or discipline you for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If retaliation occurs, you may have grounds for a separate legal action.
Common Workplace Injuries That Qualify
Workplace injury rights apply to a wide range of incidents, including:
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Slips, trips, and falls
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Machinery accidents
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Repetitive stress injuries (like carpal tunnel)
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Construction site accidents
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Exposure to toxic substances
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Transportation accidents during work duties
When to Call a Workers’ Comp Lawyer in NJ
You should consider contacting a New Jersey workers' comp lawyer if:
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Your benefits are denied or delayed
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You're pressured to return to work too soon
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You're asked to see a specific doctor who ignores your symptoms
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Your employer doesn’t report your injury
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You have a long-term or permanent disability
An experienced attorney can help ensure you get the full NJ workplace accident benefits you deserve and protect you from being taken advantage of by insurance companies.
Act Quickly: Don’t Lose Your Rights
New Jersey law requires that you report a workplace injury to your employer within 90 days, and you must file a formal workers' compensation claim within two years of the injury (or last authorized treatment). Don’t wait—delays can cost you critical benefits.
Conclusion
Workplace injuries can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Knowing your rights and working with a skilled workers’ comp lawyer in NJ can make all the difference in securing the treatment and compensation you’re entitled to. If you or a loved one has been injured at work, reach out today for a free consultation and get the legal support you need.
Need Help with a Work Injury Claim in New Jersey?
Contact NJPersonalInjury.org
today to speak with an experienced attorney who will fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
