Workers Compensation
When an employee is injured on the job, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Consider this scenario: An employee suffers a minor ankle fracture, keeping them out of work for four weeks and on light duty for six more weeks. A claim is filed with the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical expenses and temporary disability benefits—typically 70% of the employee’s wages. However, once the employee returns to light duty, does that mean the insurance company is finished covering costs? The answer is no.
In New Jersey, the workers’ compensation system is based on “functional loss.” This means an injured worker may qualify for permanent disability compensation if they suffer lasting impairment. A workers’ compensation attorney in NJ can help determine eligibility for this benefit. The state legislature has a disability chart, updated annually for inflation, that outlines compensation for various injuries. A worker with a partial disability, like a fractured ankle, may receive a percentage-based award for a set number of weeks.
An NJ workers’ comp lawyer plays a crucial role in this process. After an injury, the employee undergoes evaluations from medical professionals representing both the injured party and the employer’s insurance company. If there’s a dispute over the disability rating, negotiations take place. If no agreement is reached, the case may go to trial before a Workers’ Compensation Judge appointed by the Governor. Unlike in wage-loss states, where compensation depends on projected income loss, New Jersey workers’ compensation law treats all workers equally, regardless of their profession.
So, what happens if an injured worker doesn’t pursue a permanent disability award? Does the employer benefit? Not really—the employer’s insurance premiums are likely already affected by the claim. The real winner in this situation is the insurance company, which profits when injured workers fail to claim the full compensation they’re entitled to. This is why it’s essential to consult an experienced work injury lawyer in NJ to ensure fair treatment.
If you have questions about your claim, the legal team at Portnoi & Reed, a trusted workers’ compensation law firm in NJ, is here to help. Call Mitchell Portnoi at (908) 228-8800 for a free consultation today.
Portnoi & Reed obtained over $35,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for shoulder and low back injuries.
Portnoi & Reed obtained over $17,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for client who sustained wrist injuries and lower back injuries.
Portnoi & Reed obtained over $5,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for client with a thumb injury and required an operation.
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides medical coverage and wage replacement to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In New Jersey, most employers are required to carry workers’ comp insurance.
You should consult a workers’ compensation lawyer in New Jersey if:
Your claim is denied or delayed.
Your employer disputes your employment status or injury.
You receive less compensation than you deserve.
You have suffered a serious workplace injury that results in permanent disability.
Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys in NJ offer a free consultation to evaluate your case.
Workers’ compensation benefits in New Jersey include:
Medical expenses – Doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and therapy.
Temporary disability benefits – 70% of your average weekly wage if you are unable to work.
Permanent disability benefits – Compensation for long-term impairments.
Death benefits – Financial support for dependents and funeral expenses (up to $5,000).
Yes, workers’ compensation covers workplace injuries, including:
Construction accidents – Falls, equipment malfunctions, scaffolding collapses.
If you suffered a work-related injury, a work injury lawyer in New Jersey can help you file a claim and fight for the benefits you deserve.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to:
File a formal claim petition with the NJ Division of Workers’ Compensation.
Request an informal hearing to dispute the denial.
Appeal the decision with the help of an NJ workers’ compensation appeals lawyer.
Many claims are denied due to missed deadlines, lack of medical evidence, or disputes over the injury’s severity. Our denied workers’ comp claim attorneys in New Jersey can help you challenge a wrongful denial.
In most cases, workers’ compensation is your only legal remedy for a workplace injury. However, you may be able to file a lawsuit if:
Your employer intentionally caused harm.
A third party (such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer) was responsible for your injury.
A construction accident workers’ comp attorney in NJ or a workplace accident lawyer in NJ can help you determine if you qualify for additional legal action.
The value of your workers’ comp settlement in New Jersey depends on:
Severity of your injury and its impact on your ability to work.
Medical expenses and future treatment costs.
Lost wages from time off work.
Permanent disability rating assigned by your doctor.
Our NJ workers’ comp settlement attorneys can help maximize your payout.
You must notify your employer within 90 days of your injury. A formal claim must be filed within two years from the date of injury or the last compensation payment.
Yes. If your job aggravated or worsened a pre-existing condition, such as back pain, knee injuries, or carpal tunnel syndrome, you may be eligible for compensation. An NJ workers’ comp attorney for repetitive stress injuries can help prove your claim.
Yes. New Jersey law protects all workers, including undocumented employees. If you are injured on the job, you are entitled to medical treatment and wage replacement.
It is illegal for an employer to fire, demote, or harass you for seeking workers’ comp benefits. If you experience retaliation, an NJ workplace injury attorney can help protect your rights.
Our top workers’ compensation lawyers in New Jersey have helped:
Construction workers – Scaffold falls, machinery accidents.
Healthcare workers – Patient lifting injuries, infections.
Factory workers – Repetitive stress injuries, equipment malfunctions.
Truck drivers – Road accidents, loading/unloading injuries.
Retail and warehouse workers – Heavy lifting injuries, slip and falls.
Teachers and office workers – Carpal tunnel, repetitive stress injuries.
If you need help filing a claim, contact our workers’ compensation attorneys in NJ for a free consultation today.
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