In New Jersey, workers’ compensation is an insurance program that provides certain benefits if you sustain job-related illnesses or injuries. The insurance is “no-fault” insurance, which means that it does not matter who is responsible for the accident, you will still receive benefits.
Additionally, it provides death benefits to children or dependents of workers who die as a result of their job.
Available benefits
According to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, workers’ compensation provides the following benefits.
- Temporary total benefits
- Medical benefits
- Permanent total benefits
- Permanent partial benefits
In exchange for receiving these benefits through the workers’ compensation program, you cannot file a lawsuit against your employer for other damages, such as pain and suffering. There are exceptions, however, if it was an intentional act that hurt you in the first place.
What to do if you sustain an injury
If you sustain an injury, you should report it to your employer right away. You may give the notice of your injury to anyone in charge at your workplace. The notice does not have to be in writing, although your employer may want you to fill out an accident report if you are able. If you require medical treatment, you should make a request as soon as possible. According to the New Jersey workers’ compensation laws, your employer and their insurance carrier can choose which physician will treat you for your injuries. It is also important to note that in NJ it is against the law for your employer to retaliate against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim.