It’s another workday, and for most people, that means the same familiar rhythm of getting up early, clocking in, getting the job done, and making it home in one piece. You’ve probably gone through those motions hundreds or thousands of times without ever giving much thought to what could happen if things went wrong. Unfortunately, all it takes is one moment or mistake for an ordinary day to turn into something else entirely. Here at Pezzano Law Group (Warren County office of LCR Law), we have extensive experience representing clients who’ve sustained on-the-job injuries and are seeking workers’ compensation benefits. If you’ve been hurt and are looking to file a claim, please don’t hesitate to contact a dedicated Warren County workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm for a free consultation today.
What Injuries Are Covered Under Workers’ Compensation in New Jersey?
Workers’ compensation is meant to do one thing: help injured employees get the care and benefits they need, without having to prove anyone was “at fault.” In New Jersey, nearly every employer must carry workers’ compensation insurance, and it applies to most employees from the moment they start working.
Some injuries happen all at once, such as a fall or a heavy object dropped at the wrong angle, while others build slowly, developing over weeks, months, or even years of repetitive strain. Either way, they’re often covered under the law. Some of the most common injuries that we see lead to workers’ compensation claims are as follows:
- Repetitive motion injuries: Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or joint inflammation caused by repeated strain.
- Back and neck injuries: Muscle strains, herniated discs, or spinal injuries.
- Slip, trip, and fall injuries: Among the most common of all workplace accidents, often leading to broken bones, sprains, or concussions.
- Head and brain injuries: Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.
- Fractures and crushed limbs: Serious trauma often resulting from machinery accidents or heavy equipment failures.
- Burns: Thermal, electrical, or chemical burns sustained in kitchens, factories, or industrial environments.
- Respiratory illnesses: Lung or airway conditions caused by inhaling toxic fumes, smoke, or asbestos.
- Hearing loss: A gradual but serious condition common among workers exposed to loud machinery or construction noise.
- Eye injuries: Caused by chemicals, flying debris, or sparks in manufacturing or laboratory settings.
- Heatstroke and exhaustion: Common among outdoor laborers, roofers, and road crews exposed to extreme heat.
- Occupational diseases: Chronic conditions, such as certain cancers or lung diseases, linked directly to a worker’s job environment.
- Psychological injuries: Stress-related trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder, in rare cases where the cause is work-related and supported by medical evidence.
Reporting & Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
When you’re hurt at work, what you do next matters. If you can, do everything in your power to take the following steps:
- Report your injury right away. Don’t wait. Even if the injury seems minor, tell your employer as soon as possible, preferably in writing. Under New Jersey law, you have up to 90 days to report it, but sooner is always better. The longer you wait, the more questions an insurance carrier might ask.
- Seek approved medical care. Your employer or their insurance company usually decides where you go for treatment. If you see a doctor on your own without authorization, you may have to pay out of pocket.
- Follow through on all treatment. Your medical records will play a major role in your claim. Missing appointments can be used against you later.
- File your claim if benefits are delayed or denied. If your employer doesn’t report the injury, or if the insurer disputes your claim, you can file a “Claim Petition” or an “Application for Informal Hearing” with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation. This process allows a judge to review your case.
- Keep records of everything. Save all emails, reports, and medical notes.
Contact a Warren County, NJ Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you’ve sustained an injury on the job and are seeking workers’ compensation benefits, you can depend on a knowledgeable and dedicated work injury lawyer from Pezzano Law Group to fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation so we can discuss your case.
