If you are injured at work, then your injuries are more than likely covered by workers’ compensation in New Jersey. While it is true that not all employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance, most employers will. Workers’ compensation is a no fault insurance program designed with workers in mind.
The workers’ compensation program encourages workers to seek medical attention immediately after an accident, and also ensures they receive payments faster than a typical personal injury case. In fact, if you are out of work, payments for your injuries often start within a week or two of your accident.
Although there are huge benefits provided by workers’ comp, there are some downfalls in this system as well. When these types of scenarios occur, that is when experienced workers’ compensation lawyers are necessary.
There may not be as many benefits available in a workers’ compensation claim when compared to a personal injury claim, but the offered benefits can be an invaluable resource to you and your family while you recover from your injury or accident.
Without workers’ compensation, you may not get a payment until months or even years down the road. It is difficult to support yourself or your family when working isn’t an option due to injuries sustained.
The benefits included in most workers’ compensation cases include:
In the unfortunate event that a loved one dies due to a work-related activity, death benefits for the family are also available through workers’ compensation. These benefits are still 70 percent of your loved one’s average weekly wage, and includes a funeral expense benefit up to $3,500.
The surviving partner and natural children who were a part of the decedent’s household at the time of death can receive benefits because they are automatically considered dependents under New Jersey law.
Other family members, or those who did not live with the deceased, may have to prove dependency to receive benefits. Often, a dependency hearing must be held to determine who will receive benefits after a work-related death.
Workers’ compensation is designed for workers, but the system has flaws, and does not always work like it should. Insurance companies may attempt to compensate you less than what you deserve. They may also try to say that your injury is not work-related, or provide a whole host of other excuses to avoid paying you benefits.
You can do something about it—Call Schibell & Mennie, LLC at 732-774-1000 today to get your workers’ compensation case started.
If you need to consult a New Jersey attorney, you need to contact Schibell & Mennie, LLC. The initial consultation is always free.