In the state of New Jersey, the workers’ compensation program gives employees access to vital benefits. Coverage is not limited to medical care.
Employees should know what benefits they can seek after getting hurt on-the-job. Here are some of the most important features of workers’ compensation.
Temporary disability
In the event an injury prevents an employee from working for a short period of time, workers’ compensation can help. Claimants may receive a portion or all of their lost wages.
Long term disability
A serious injury could prevent an employee from working for an extended period of time or even permanently. In this type of situation, workers’ compensation may offer ongoing payments.
Death benefits
A fatal work-related accident may entitle an employee’s family to death benefits. This coverage can help to pay for final expenses such as funeral services. A surviving spouse or dependent children may also receive compensation payments for several years.
Settlement payments
The workers’ compensation program may agree to settle a claim with a lump sum. The amount of a settlement may depend on several factors including the severity of an injury and an employee’s ability to return to work. A settlement agreement will likely entail signing a waiver of future claims related to an injury.
Employees who are seeking workers’ compensation for a work-related injury should make sure that they are receiving the entirety of the benefits that they are eligible for. Employers may not be fully aware of what coverage is available, so it is important that employees do not direct their questions about coverage only to their employers.