Workers’ compensation is a system designed to protect employees who suffer injuries or illnesses as a result of their job duties. In New Jersey, most employers are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which provides benefits to injured workers regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This system exists to ensure that employees receive medical care and financial support without having to file a traditional personal injury lawsuit against their employer.
Despite the protections built into the workers’ compensation system, many injured workers are unsure what benefits are available or how to access them. At Mallon and Tranger, we help injured employees throughout New Jersey understand their rights and pursue the full range of benefits provided under the law.
Medical care is one of the most important benefits available through workers’ compensation. If you are injured at work or develop a work-related illness, workers’ compensation should cover reasonable and necessary medical treatment connected to your condition. These benefits are intended to ensure you receive care without worrying about out-of-pocket medical costs.
Medical benefits may cover a wide range of treatment, including emergency care immediately after an accident, follow-up doctor visits, diagnostic testing, surgery, physical therapy, and prescription medications. In some cases, workers’ compensation also covers medical equipment such as braces, crutches, or assistive devices. Disputes often arise when insurance carriers delay or deny approval for recommended treatment, which can slow recovery and increase stress.
In New Jersey, the employer or its insurance carrier generally has the right to select the treating medical provider for a workers’ compensation claim. This can be frustrating for injured workers who want to see their own doctor. While you must typically follow the authorized treatment plan, there are circumstances where disputes arise over the adequacy or necessity of care.
Insurance companies may challenge certain treatments as unnecessary or attempt to limit access to specialists. When these disputes occur, legal representation can help ensure that medical decisions are based on your health needs rather than cost considerations.
When a workplace injury prevents you from working, workers’ compensation may provide temporary disability benefits to help replace lost income. These benefits are designed to provide financial stability while you recover and are unable to perform your job duties.
Temporary disability benefits are generally paid as a percentage of your average weekly wage, subject to minimum and maximum limits set by New Jersey law. Benefits typically begin after a short waiting period and continue until you are able to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement. Disputes can arise if insurers argue that you are able to return to work sooner than your doctor recommends.
Some workplace injuries result in permanent physical or functional limitations. When an injury causes lasting impairment, permanent disability benefits may be available. These benefits are intended to compensate injured workers for long-term loss of function or reduced earning capacity.
Permanent disability benefits in New Jersey may be classified as partial or total. Partial disability applies when a worker can still perform some work but has permanent limitations. Total disability applies when an injury prevents any gainful employment. Determining the extent of permanent disability often involves medical evaluations and may be contested by insurers.
If a workplace injury prevents you from returning to your prior position, workers’ compensation may provide vocational rehabilitation benefits. These services help injured workers acquire new skills or training that allows them to return to the workforce in a different role.
Vocational rehabilitation may include job training programs, education courses, or assistance with job placement. These benefits are especially important for workers whose injuries limit physical abilities required for their previous employment.
When a workplace accident results in a fatal injury, workers’ compensation provides death benefits to surviving dependents. These benefits are designed to help families cope with the financial loss caused by the death of a loved one.
Death benefits may include weekly payments to dependents as well as coverage of funeral and burial expenses. Determining eligibility and benefit amounts can be complex, especially when multiple dependents are involved.
Even though workers’ compensation benefits are guaranteed by law, injured workers often encounter obstacles. Employers and insurance companies may dispute whether an injury is work-related or argue that a condition existed before the accident.
Common challenges include:
These challenges can place significant financial strain on injured workers and their families.
Workers’ compensation law involves strict deadlines and detailed procedures. Insurance carriers often rely on these rules to limit or deny benefits. Having an experienced attorney can help ensure that claims are filed correctly, evidence is presented effectively, and disputes are addressed promptly.
Our workers’ compensation attorneys at Mallon and Tranger work closely with injured workers to protect their rights and pursue full benefits under New Jersey law. We handle denied claims, appeals, and disputes over medical care and disability benefits.
A workplace injury can affect your health, income, and future. Understanding what benefits are available is essential to protecting yourself and your family. You do not have to deal with the workers’ compensation system alone.
Mallon and Tranger represents injured workers throughout New Jersey and is committed to helping clients secure the benefits they deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you move forward.
