People can get seriously hurt when they are at work, even in jobs that are not traditionally thought of as dangerous. If you were injured on the job in New Jersey, you have rights and you may be owed compensation. If you are not sure what to do next or if you believe that someone is trying to violate your rights, then our Monmouth County workers’ compensation attorneys may be able to help.
What Can I Do After I Get Injured on the Job?
After you get injured on the job, you have the right to apply for workers’ compensation. Your employer should have workers’ compensation insurance. When you get hurt, you notify your employer right away. Then they notify their insurance company and you are given benefits.
This is how it is supposed to work anyway. However, claims can be denied. Some employers also pressure their workers not to make a claim because it will increase their premiums. You have a right to workers’ compensation though, and you have the right to appeal when your claim is denied.
How Do Workers’ Compensation Benefits Work?
How much you receive and how long you receive workers’ compensation benefits for can vary depending on your injuries and your ability to return to work. Generally, people who get injured on the job get broken down into these broad categories:
Temporary total disability: You cannot work at all, but only for a limited amount of time. Once you recover, the payments stop but you can go back to work.
Temporary partial disability: You can do some work, but you cannot perform all duties of your job right now. Maybe you need to work fewer hours per day, like four instead of eight.
Permanent partial disability: You will not ever be able to perform all aspects of your job again, but you can do some work. With rehabilitation, you may be able to find a job that’s a better fit for you.
Permanent total disability: You will not be able to return to your job in any capacity.
How much you are paid depends mostly on your current wages.
What Can I Do If My Claim Is Denied?
You do have the right to appeal when a workers’ compensation claim is denied. It can be helpful to have a lawyer here. Sometimes a simple mistake or misunderstanding causes the rejection, and a lawyer can easily fix the problem and help you get the benefits that you deserve.
Can I Sue a Third Party If I Get Injured on the Job?
You cannot sue your employer because you go through the workers’ compensation system instead. However, if someone else was involved and helped cause your injuries you may be able to sue them. An example of this is if you are injured on a job site due to faulty machinery. The manufacturer of that equipment could be liable in a personal injury suit.
Talk to a Lawyer Today
When you get injured on the job, you have to act quickly. So contact the Wilton Law Firm and schedule a consultation with our team. It’s time that you learned more about your rights and legal options.
