Benefits Covered and Common Mistakes To Avoid
In New Jersey, as in all states, there are workers’ compensation laws that potentially provide benefits when you have a work-related injury or illness. What benefits are covered under New Jersey workers’ compensation law? What are some common mistakes to avoid when filing a New Jersey worker’s compensation claim?
The Benefits Covered by a New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Claim
To qualify for benefits under New Jersey workers’ comp laws, you must prove two things—that you suffered an injury and that the injury was work-related. If you successfully meet those requirements and your claim is approved, you can potentially receive:
- Medical Expenses—Payment or reimbursement of your reasonable and necessary medical expenses can include the cost of office visits, hospitalization, and prescription drugs.
- Disability benefits based on your inability to work—Disability benefits may be temporary or permanent, and they may be partial or total. The monetary payment received is calculated at 70% of your average weekly wage, not to exceed 75% of the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW). The minimum benefit is set at 20% of the SAWW.
- Death benefits—Eligible surviving family members may be entitled to weekly benefits calculated at 70% of the decedent’s average weekly wage. In addition, up to $3,500 of funeral expenses may be reimbursed.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Filing for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Successfully obtaining workers’ compensation benefits is rarely easy, but there are things you can do to make the process even more difficult:
- Failing to file Form 18, which officially puts your employer and the Workers’ Compensation Commission on notice of your potential claim
- Failing to fully disclose all your medical conditions to the medical provider
- Failing to comply with doctor’s orders
- Failing to get a second opinion—You must be examined by a doctor chosen by your employer, but you also have the right to see your own doctor.
Contact the Law Office of Howard D. Popper
At the Law Offices of Howard D. Popper, we can help protect your rights. For a free initial consultation to discuss your options after a personal injury, including injuries suffered in the workplace, contact our office online or call 973-993-8787 to set up an appointment. We have offices in Morristown and Newton.
We handle all personal injury matters, including job-related injury claims, on a contingent fee basis. You won’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover damages for your losses.