Every year, many workers in New Jersey are injured on the job. Being unable to work and provide for one’s family can be a stressful experience.
Fortunately, New Jersey has workers’ compensation benefits to take care of sick or injured employees. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits available.
What can you expect to receive if injured on the job?
There are numerous benefits available through workers’ compensation for those that are injured on the job, including:
- Temporary disability benefits: If an on-the-job injury or illness means that you can’t work for more than seven days, you could be entitled to temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. In New Jersey, minimum and maximum payout changes every year, but the benefits are usually 70% of your average weekly income. According to New Jersey Statutes Title 34. Labor and Workmen’s Compensation 34 § 15-12, TTD benefits continue until you are able to return to work, have reached the maximum medical improvement or have received 400 weeks of benefits.
- Permanent total disability benefits: If an injured worker is permanently and totally disabled and unable to return to work, they can continue to receive benefits. After 450 weeks of benefits, the recipient is required to go through an evaluation process to extend them.
- Permanent partial disability benefits: If a work-related injury or illness results in a long-lasting medical condition or impairment but the worker is still able to perform their job duties, then the worker may be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits.
- Medical benefits: Workers’ compensation pays for medical treatment that is necessary and authorized for work-related injuries.
- Death benefits: If an employee dies in a work-related accident, their spouse and minor children may be eligible for death benefits.
- Funeral expenses: Workers’ compensation in New Jersey also pays up to $5000 in funeral and burial expenses when an on-the-job injury results in death.
- Vocational rehabilitation: Workers’ compensation can include new training if a worker is unable to return to their normal job duties.
New Jersey workers’ compensation benefits are designed to take care of injured workers while they are not able to take care of themselves. It is important to be informed about the workers’ compensation laws in New Jersey.
If your workers’ comp claim has been denied or you’re encountering other problems, it may be time to seek legal assistance.