How New Jersey’s Workers Compensation Laws Impact Construction Workers

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New Jersey’s workers compensation laws are designed to protect employees who suffer injuries or illnesses while performing their job duties. These laws provide financial support to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs, ensuring that workers are not left financially vulnerable after an accident. 

For construction workers, who face some of the highest risks in the workplace, understanding these laws is crucial. This article delves into the specifics of how these laws affect construction workers in New Jersey, highlighting key provisions, common injuries, the claims process, and available legal support.

Key Provisions of New Jersey Workers Compensation Laws

New Jersey’s workers compensation laws are comprehensive, providing various benefits to injured workers. These benefits include:

1. Medical Benefits: Coverage for all necessary medical treatment related to the work injury, including doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
2. Temporary Total Disability Benefits: Payments to workers who are temporarily unable to work due to their injury, typically amounting to 70% of their average weekly wage.
3. Permanent Partial Disability Benefits: Compensation for workers who suffer a permanent impairment but can still work in some capacity.
4. Permanent Total Disability Benefits: Benefits for workers who are permanently unable to work due to their injury, usually paid for as long as the disability continues.
5. Death Benefits: Financial support for the dependents of a worker who dies as a result of a workplace injury, including funeral expenses and ongoing support payments.

These provisions ensure that construction workers receive the necessary support to recover from their injuries and maintain financial stability.

Common Injuries and Claims Among Construction Workers

Construction workers are exposed to numerous hazards on the job, making them particularly vulnerable to injuries. Some of the most common injuries in the construction industry include:

1. Falls: From scaffolding, ladders, or roofs, leading to fractures, head injuries, or spinal damage.
2. Struck-by Incidents: Being hit by falling objects or machinery, causing severe trauma or concussions.
3. Caught-in/between Accidents: Being trapped between equipment or materials, resulting in crush injuries or amputations.
4. Electrocutions: Contact with live wires or electrical equipment, leading to burns or cardiac issues.
5. Overexertion: Physical strain from lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects, causing muscle and joint injuries.

These injuries can have significant impacts on a worker’s ability to perform their job, necessitating the filing of workers compensation claims to receive appropriate benefits.

The Claims Process for Construction Workers in New Jersey

Filing a workers compensation claim in New Jersey involves several steps, which construction workers should follow carefully to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve:

1. Report the Injury: Immediately report the injury to the employer. Failure to do so within 90 days can jeopardize the claim.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Obtain medical treatment from an authorized provider as directed by the employer or insurance company.
3. File a Claim Petition: If the claim is disputed or denied, the worker can file a formal claim petition with the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
4. Attend Hearings: Participate in any required hearings or evaluations to support the claim.
5. Receive Benefits: Once approved, benefits are disbursed according to the severity and type of injury.

Understanding this process is vital for construction workers to navigate the system effectively and secure the compensation they need.

Legal Support and Resources for Construction Workers

Navigating workers compensation laws can be complex, and construction workers may benefit from legal assistance to ensure their rights are protected. The Epstein Law Firm specializes in representing injured workers, offering services that include:

1. Case Evaluation: Assessing the validity and strength of the workers’ compensation claim.
2. Claim Filing Assistance: Helping with the preparation and submission of necessary documents.
3. Dispute Resolution: Representing workers in disputes with employers or insurance companies.
4. Appeals Process: Guiding workers through the appeals process if their claim is denied.

Additionally, numerous resources are available to help construction workers understand their rights and the compensation process, such as the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation website and local workers’ rights organizations.

Contact The Epstein Law Firm Today

New Jersey’s workers compensation laws provide essential protections for construction workers, offering a safety net in case of workplace injuries. Understanding these laws and the claims process can make a significant difference in the lives of injured workers, ensuring they receive the medical care and financial support they need. Legal assistance from experts like The Epstein Law Firm can further enhance workers’ ability to navigate the system and secure their rightful benefits. By staying informed and proactive, construction workers in New Jersey can better protect their health, well-being, and livelihood.  Contact us today at 201-231-7847 or schedule a consultation online to learn more.