What Are My Rights if I’m Injured On the Job in New Jersey?

Everyone can agree that pain is an unpleasant feeling. Whether you are behind the wheel or walking through a grocery store, suffering an injury due to another’s negligence can be a distressing situation. However, sustaining an injury at work can be even more stressful as you fear your job is at stake. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may have to take a substantial amount of time off of work to heal. This may cause you to worry about how you will support yourself and your family. Fortunately, the law affords certain rights and protections to injured individuals while performing duties within the scope of their employment. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, if you were injured while on the job, you may be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Please continue reading to learn what rights you’re entitled to after a workplace injury and how a determined Morris County Work Injury Attorney can help protect your rights during the process ahead. 

What Are My Rights as an Employee After an On the Job Injury in New Jersey?

Like other states, New Jersey requires employers to maintain a safe environment, andcarry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. EWorkers’compensation benefits can provide medical treatment, wage replacements, and permanent disability compensation to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. Unlike other personal injury claims, employees are not burdened with proving that their employer’s negligence was the direct cause of their injuries and damages. Instead, all they have to prove is that they were injured while within the scope of their job duties. It’s important to note that by accepting workers’ compensation, employees relinquish their right to pursue legal action against their employer for damages should they become injured.

Nonetheless, there are exceptions to when an employee can sue their employer for damages. If you have a valid workers’ compensation claim and your employer wrongly denied your claim, you can take legal action to recoup what you should have been provided through your workers’ compensation benefits.

How Can I Protect My Rights?

If you are injured while working, workers’ compensation should cover your damages. However, you must take the necessary steps to secure your rights. Firstly, your health and well-being should be your top priority. Seek immediate medical attention. From here, you should report your injury to your employer. While you have up to two years from the accident date to file a claim for benefits, you must notify your employer within 90 days of the injury to preserve your rights. It’s beneficial to inform your employer as soon as possible. Keep track of all of your medical records and follow the doctor’s treatment plan to mitigate damages.

It’s also imperative to note that you can appeal a worker’s compensation denial. If your claim is denied, you can request a hearing and be represented by a lawyer. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to retain the legal services of an experienced Morris County work injury attorney who can help you navigate your legal options and safeguard your rights. At Lutz Injury Law, we are prepared to help you fight for the compensation you deserve and need to get your life back on track.