Though work-related injuries are fairly commonplace, it’s still a pretty traumatic experience when an accident on the job, or an occupational illness, makes it difficult or impossible for you to work, and requires significant medical treatment. If you’ve never had to deal with a workplace injury or illness before, you may be unfamiliar with the process and what you need to do to protect your rights. Over the next few blogs, we will walk you through the workers’ compensation process, so you know exactly what to expect and can work closely with your attorney to get the benefits you need and deserve.
Your First Response
In the aftermath of a work accident, or if you have contracted a disease or illness because of something you were exposed to at work, your first step should be to notify your employer, although it’s always a good idea to retain legal counsel as soon as possible. In New Jersey, if you don’t report your injury or illness within 90 days of the date of the accident or the diagnosis of the illness, you may lose the right to recover benefits through a workers’ compensation claim.
Once you have notified your employer, your employer must provide notice to its workers’ compensation insurance provider. The insurance company is then required under law to prepare a “First Report of Injury” form and file it with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation. The insurance company will make the initial determination whether or not to approve your claim, and will typically do so within 30 days. If your claim is approved, you should start receiving benefits within a couple of weeks of the approval, and your benefits will be retroactive. If your application for benefits is denied, you have a right to appeal.
Contact the Law Offices of Szaferman Lakind
To arrange a private meeting, contact us by e-mail or call our office at 609-771-8611. Evening and weekend meetings are available upon request. We take all major credit cards.
We handle all workers’ compensation cases on a contingency basis. There will be no attorney fees unless we get compensation for your losses.
