Suffering a workplace injury is common, however, many workers in New Jersey have very limited knowledge on dealing with workplace injuries. You never think it will happen to you and then it does. Many employees are under the impression that their employer will do the right thing and pay for all expenses but that does not always happen for several reasons. That is why you need the help of an NJ workers’ comp lawyer.
What are Workplace Injuries?
You may think that your workplace is safe and there is no possibility that you could ever be injured on the job. It is important to note that a workplace injury is not always a major incident and can be as simple as falling. Did you know that a fall can actually leave you with broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and in the worst cases death? A common cause for a fall can be simple carelessness while another cause is an unsafe work condition. Here are some other common workplace injuries:
- Electrocution
- Back injury
- Burns
- Amputations
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Harm from exposure to toxic fumes or chemicals
- Cuts and lacerations
It is imperative that you contact an NJ workers comp lawyer to discuss your injuries and determine your best course of action.
Medical Treatment for NJ Workplace Injuries
It is important that no matter how big or small the injury is, you must seek medical attention. This can get tricky during a worker’s compensation claim as injured workers cannot typically choose their own doctor. At the time the incident occurs, you will have to work with your employer to use one of their approved doctors. If the incident that happened caused serious injury then emergency services should be called.
In this case, neither you nor your employer will have any control over the medical professional you are seeing. An NJ workers comp lawyer can work with you to ensure you are obtaining an unbiased medical opinion after a workplace injury. You should follow the doctor’s order to the letter and your employer must work with you during the recovery process. You may be limited on what tasks you can do and for how long you can work. This is all part of the healing process.
Are You Entitled to Benefits for NJ Workplace Injuries?
In broad terms, employees are entitled to all of their medical expenses being covered under workers’ compensation. Employees may also receive compensation for lost wages, although it may not be the entire amount the employee would have made if they had been working. In rare occurrences where the employee is found to be disabled due to the injury, there are a few options for disability benefits including:
- Temporary total disability
- Temporary partial disability
- Permanent total disability
- Permanent partial disability
- Death benefits
These can seem a bit confusing at first glance and we understand. Obtaining disability benefits of any kind is an arduous process but having an NJ workers’ comp lawyer by your side can make the process smoother and less confusing.
How to File an NJ Workers’ Compensation Claim
When you file a workers’ compensation claim, you think the hard part is over. Sadly, that is not always true. Insurance companies still have to approve or deny the claim. If your claim is approved you will be able to work with an adjuster on a return-to-work program. However, if it is denied, you will need to contact the Law Offices of James C. DeZao, P.A. at F:P:Sub:Phone} to discuss your case.
We have extensive experience representing workers in workplace injuries and workers’ compensations cases, and we can leverage our experience to help you receive rightful compensation, no matter your situation.