Work Accident Lawyer – Elizabeth NJ
Workers’ Compensation Laws in New Jersey
When hurt at work, speaking to an Elizabeth NJ work accident attorney can prove extremely helpful, as New Jersey Workers’ Compensation laws are some of the most nuanced in the nation. However, these laws are also some of the most effective in getting injured employees just compensation. Nearly 150,000 New Jerseyans filed claims with their employers in 2012 for injuries they received while working and these individuals have definite rights as they try to arbitrate their claims. Consulting with an Elizabeth NJ workers compensation attorney will provide you with valuable insights as your case moves forward. Having an understanding of workers’ compensation law will help you to be proactive in seeing to that your claims are respected and expediently resolved.
New Jersey workers’ compensation law strives to provide reasonable solutions for both employers and employees. If you are injured on the job as an employee, you are entitled to a variety of reparations depending on your circumstance. But in order to receive the compensation that you deserve, it is important to follow the processes established by the State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
Am I Covered Under New Jersey Workers Compensation Law?
If you work for a salary in the state of New Jersey, you are almost certainly covered under state workers’ compensation law. If you are a domestic or agricultural worker, you are covered under New Jersey workers’ compensation law. If you are a maritime or railroad worker, you are covered by federal workers’ compensation law. However, if you are technically considered an independent contractor, you are not covered under any workers’ compensation law.
What are my rights to workers’ compensation?
If you are injured on the job, you are entitled to medical attention and compensation for the time that you miss work. In New Jersey if you are injured on the job you are expected to notify your employer within 90 days of the incident, and, if you believe that you need medical attention, notify your employer about obtaining that assistance as soon as possible. This notice does not need to be expressed in writing. Once notified, your employer and/or your insurance provider will investigate your incident. The New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Statute prevents your employer from discharging or discriminating against you in any manner because you notified them about your workplace injury. If you feel that you have been mistreated by an employer after notifying them of your workplace injury, do not hesitate to contact our office and speak with a work injury lawyer in Elizabeth, NJ.
Your employer and your insurance plan (obtained through your employer) should cover the medical expenses relevant to your recovery. Your insurance plan should likewise cover up to 70% of your weekly wages, for up to $843 per week, relative to the amount of time that you are unable to work. It does not matter whether or not you were at fault for your workplace accident in the state of New Jersey, so be proactive about discussing your injury with your employer.
What Happens if My Employer Denies My Requests for Compensation or Medical Coverage?
As an injured worker you can file for an informal hearing before a Judge of Compensation. Traditionally both you and a representative from your employer or their insurance company will appear before this judge. While the judge will make suggestions to resolve your and your employer/insurance’s concerns, their advice is not binding.
However, an Elizabeth NJ workers compensation attorney can file a motion with the Division of Workers’ Compensation. You have up to two years to file with the Division of Workers’ Compensation. If you choose to pursue an informal hearing before a Judge of Compensation, that hearing will not interfere with your two year opportunity to file a claim at the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
At our Elizabeth NJ workers compensation law firm, we have extensive experience in successfully filing motions for medical and temporary benefits on behalf of our clients.We are committed to making sure you are recompensed for your workplace injuries in a way that accords with New Jersey workers’ compensation law.Our Elizabeth, NJ firm does not collect fees until after our clients receive compensation awards. Contact our Elizabeth NJ work accident attorneys today and receive a free case evaluation.