According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 75,000 New Jersey workers faced injury and illness due to their jobs in 2021. Many of those workers turned to workers’ compensation to help cover their costs while they healed.
Workers’ compensation is an important topic that garners a lot of questions. This system, created to protect employees who get injured or fall ill due to their job, can often seem complex, and it is important to understand how it works.
Who qualifies for workers’ compensation?
If you are an employee in New Jersey and get injured or sick because of your job, you are eligible for workers’ compensation. This compensation covers almost all employees, regardless of whether they work full-time or part-time. It includes not just injuries, but also illnesses that occur as a result of your work.
What does workers’ compensation cover?
Workers’ compensation provides several benefits. These include coverage for necessary and reasonable medical treatment, loss of wages if you cannot work due to your injury or illness and benefits if your injury leads to permanent disability. If a work-related injury or illness results in death, dependents of the worker may also receive benefits.
How do you file a workers’ compensation claim?
To receive workers’ compensation, you must first report your injury or illness to your employer. This notification should be as soon as possible, but no later than 90 days after the incident. Your employer is then responsible for filing a claim with their insurance company, which will determine the benefits.
What if your claim gets denied?
If your workers’ compensation claim gets denied, you have the right to file an appeal with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation. This is an administrative process where a judge will hear your case. You will need to provide evidence to support your claim at this hearing.
Understanding your rights and obligations when it comes to workers’ compensation can make the process less stressful and more effective. You work hard, and you deserve to have the proper support if a job-related injury or illness occurs.