What Type of Injuries Are Covered Under Workers’ Compensation in New Jersey?

If you were hurt on the job in New Jersey, understanding which types of injuries are covered under workers’ compensation and how the insurance works is crucial to protect your legal rights and options. Continue reading for more information and speak with an experienced Warren County workers’ compensation lawyer to schedule your free consultation today.

What Benefits Does Workers’ Compensation Offer?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance program that provides benefits to employees who have suffered job-related injuries or illnesses. Regardless of who was responsible for causing the injury or ailment, the employee who sustained harm can receive guaranteed benefits. In exchange, the worker does not have the right to file a civil action against the employer for their damages, including pain and suffering, unless the harm came from an intentional act.

Workers’ compensation offers employees the following benefits:

• Medical benefits: Necessary and reasonable medical treatment, prescriptions, and other services related to the injury
• Temporary total benefits: If a worker is disabled for more than 7 days, they are eligible for temporary payment at a rate of 70% of their average weekly wage, not to exceed the statutory maximum rate or fall below the statutory minimum
• Permanent partial benefits: If a worker sustains permanent bodily impairment, they are eligible for weekly compensation based on the functional loss
• Permanent total benefits: If a worker cannot return to any type of gainful employment, they are eligible for permanent disability benefits at a rate of 70% of their average weekly wage, not to exceed the statutory maximum rate or fall below the statutory minimum for 450 weeks. and then continuing for the rest of their lives if a re-exam confirms continuing total disability
• Death benefits: Dependents of a worker who dies as a result of a work-related injury or illness may be eligible to receive funeral expenses up to $5,000 plus up to 70% of the worker’s lost wages until the widow/widower remarries, or the children reach the age of 18 (or 23 if in collect)

Because the benefits of workers’ comp can be significant, it’s important to understand whether your injury qualifies.

What Type of Injuries Are Covered Under Workers’ Compensation in NJ?

Workers’ compensation in New Jersey covers any injury or illness that arises at work or due to the course of employment. This is a broad definition that includes three main categories of harm: traumatic injuries, occupational illnesses, and pre-existing condition aggravation.

Traumatic injuries are caused by a specific accident or event, such as a slip and fall, a machine accident, or a car crash while on the clock. These are often sudden and apparent.

Occupational illnesses, or chronic injuries, develop over time due to exposure to workplace conditions or repetitive tasks. Examples include conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, hearing loss from constant loud noise, or respiratory illnesses from chemical exposure.

Finally, if a worker has a pre-existing medical condition, and that condition is significantly aggravated or worsened by the work environment or specific job duties, the resulting impairment may also be covered by workers’ compensation. It is important to demonstrate a clear link between the employment and the injury or illness to qualify for benefits.

Reach out to a skilled attorney for more information and legal advice.