Edison Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Helping Injured Workers in New Jersey for 80+ Years

When you’re hurt on the job, you have a lot of questions. How will you pay your bills? How long will you be out of work? What should your next steps be? At Levinson Axelrod, P.A., we have the answers you need. Our Edison workers’ compensation lawyers have been helping injured employees in New Jersey for more than 80 years. We know how to guide you through the process and fight for the full, fair benefits you’re owed.

Workers’ compensation claims can be complex, but we’re here to help. Our Edison work injury attorneys can handle the legal side of things while you focus on getting better. There are no upfront costs or hidden fees, and you don’t owe us anything unless we win your case.

Contact us today at (732) 440-3089 to speak to a member of our team today. We’re ready to fight for you.

What is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. In New Jersey, most employers are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This means that if you’re hurt while performing a job-related duty, you’re likely entitled to benefits.

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, which means that it doesn’t matter who was at fault for your injuries. Even if you made a mistake that caused the accident, you should still be eligible for benefits. In exchange for these benefits, you generally can’t sue your employer in court for additional damages.

What Benefits Are Available Through Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation benefits can be divided into two categories: medical benefits and disability benefits.

Medical benefits cover the cost of your medical treatment, including:

• Doctor’s appointments
• Surgeries
• Prescriptions
• Medical devices
• Rehabilitation
• And more

Disability benefits, on the other hand, are meant to replace your lost wages. There are four types of disability benefits available in New Jersey:

• Temporary total disability (TTD): If you’re completely unable to work for more than seven days, you’re entitled to TTD benefits. These benefits are equal to 70% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum of 75% of the statewide average weekly wage. Temporary total disability benefits continue until you’re able to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.
• Temporary partial disability (TPD): If you’re able to return to work in a limited capacity while you recover, you may be entitled to TPD benefits. These benefits are equal to 70% of the difference between your average weekly wage before your accident and your current wages. Temporary partial disability benefits continue for up to 400 weeks.
• Permanent partial disability (PPD): If you suffer a permanent impairment but are still able to work, you may be entitled to PPD benefits. The number of weeks you’re eligible for benefits depends on the extent of your disability. For example, if you lose an eye, you’re entitled to 200 weeks of benefits. If you lose a thumb, you’re entitled to 75 weeks of benefits. These benefits are equal to 70% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum of 75% of the statewide average weekly wage.
• Pemanent total disability (PTD): If you’re permanently unable to work, you may be entitled to PTD benefits. These benefits are equal to 70% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum of 75% of the statewide average weekly wage. Permanent total disability benefits continue for the duration of your disability.

How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in New Jersey

After you’re hurt on the job, you should report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Under New Jersey law, you must report the injury within 90 days in order to be eligible for benefits. If you miss the deadline, you may not be able to recover any benefits at all.

Once you’ve reported the accident, your employer should provide you with a claim form. Fill out the form as thoroughly as possible, including all the details of your accident and the injuries you suffered. Your employer will then file the claim with their insurance company and send you a copy for your records.

After you’ve filed a claim, your employer’s insurance company will investigate the accident and your injuries. They may request additional information from you, such as medical records, and may even ask you to undergo an independent medical examination (IME) with a doctor of their choosing. It’s important to cooperate with the investigation, but be careful what you say. The insurance company is looking for any reason to deny your claim.

If the insurance company approves your claim, they will send you a check for your benefits. If they deny your claim, they must send you a letter explaining why. In either case, you have the right to appeal their decision. You have two years from the date of your injury to file an appeal.

The workers’ compensation appeals process can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Levinson Axelrod, P.A., our Edison workers’ compensation lawyers can guide you through every step of the process. We know how to build strong appeals, and we’re not afraid to take your case to court if necessary.

When Should I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?

Technically, you don’t have to hire a lawyer to file a workers’ compensation claim. You can do it on your own. However, it’s always a good idea to at least consult with an attorney about your case. At Levinson Axelrod, P.A., we offer free initial consultations, so you have nothing to lose by speaking with us about your situation.

If you’re not sure whether you need a lawyer, ask yourself the following questions:

• Did your injuries require you to miss work?
• Did your injuries require you to be hospitalized?
• Did you suffer a permanent impairment?
• Did the insurance company deny your claim?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you should consult with an attorney. The workers’ compensation appeals process can be complex, and the insurance company will have a team of lawyers on their side. You deserve to have an experienced attorney fighting for you, too.

Call (732) 440-3089 or contact us online today to speak to one of our Edison workers’ compensation lawyers. We offer free initial consultations.