The steps you take immediately after a workplace injury are crucial and build the foundation for a workers’ compensation claim. For more information and to secure the help of an experienced legal professional, continue reading and contact a Warren County workers’ compensation lawyer today.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Workplace Injury in NJ?
When an accident occurs at work, the moments immediately following the injury are crucial, not only for your health but also for protecting your rights under New Jersey workers’ compensation law. Taking prompt and correct action ensures that you receive necessary medical treatment and establishes a clear record of the incident.
These first steps are necessary for a successful claim and avoiding potential complications or delays in receiving compensation. The first actions you take should prioritize safety and notification of the incident. Consider the following.
- Report the injury immediately: Notify your supervisor, manager, or another person in charge as soon as possible, preferably in writing. New Jersey law requires notice be given to an employer within 90 days, but immediate reporting is always best.
- Seek medical attention: If it is an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For non-emergencies, inform your employer that you need medical treatment. Your employer has the right to direct you to a specific medical provider for the initial evaluation.
- Document the accident details: Note the date, time, and location of the incident, what you were doing when the injury occurred, and the names of any witnesses. Take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries if you can do so safely.
- Follow medical advice: Attend all appointments and follow the treatment plan prescribed by the authorized medical provider. This demonstrates the necessity of your claim and aids in your recovery.
What Benefits Can I Receive Through Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance paid for by your employer that provides financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses arising from their employment. It is a no-fault system, meaning you are generally covered regardless of who was at fault for the injury. In return, you typically cannot sue your employer.
In New Jersey, there are three primary categories of benefits you may be entitled to receive:
- Medical care: Payment for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to the workplace injury, including doctor visits, surgery, hospitalization, prescriptions, and physical therapy. You do not pay deductibles or co-pays.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): You could recover compensation for lost wages if a doctor finds you temporarily unable to work for more than seven days. TTD is generally paid at 70% of your average weekly wage.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: This is compensation for a permanent physical or functional loss that remains after you reach maximum medical improvement. This includes Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) for functional loss and Permanent Total Disability (PTD) if you are unable to return to any employment.
To learn more about your legal rights and options after a workplace injury, consult with a knowledgeable attorney at the Pezzano Law Group, Division of Laddey Clark & Ryan.
