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Understanding Workplace Injuries And Workers' Compensation in Bergen County, NJ
Every job, be it construction, healthcare, or education, carries its own risks, and injuries can happen even in seemingly safe environments. In Bergen County, New Jersey, thousands of workers trust their employers to uphold safety measures.
Yet, an unexpected workplace injury can leave employees physically hurt, financially strained, and emotionally overwhelmed. Thankfully, New Jersey's workers' compensation system exists to help injured workers recover without carrying an added financial burden.
At the LAW OFFICES OF JEFFREY M. BLOOM, we understand how a workplace accident can turn your life upside down. Our commitment to the Bergen County community means we’re here to guide you through the workers' compensation process, ensuring you receive the benefits you need to heal and move forward.
What Are The Most Common Workplace Injuries?
Workplace hazards vary by industry, but injuries often stem from accidents, repetitive movements, or exposure to unsafe conditions. In Bergen County and across New Jersey, the most common workplace injuries include:
- Slips, Trips, And Falls: These accidents are particularly common in jobs requiring physical movement, like construction and maintenance. They can result in anything from minor sprains to serious conditions such as concussions or permanent disability.
- Overexertion And Repetitive Motion Injuries: Tasks involving repetitive actions like lifting or bending could lead to lasting injuries, such as back problems or carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Equipment And Machinery Accidents: Workers in manufacturing or construction often face injuries from heavy machinery, which can include lacerations, crushed limbs, or fractures.
- Transportation Accidents: For delivery drivers, truckers, or anyone who drives for work, motor vehicle accidents pose significant risks.
- Exposure To Hazardous Materials: Those working with industrial or chemical substances may suffer burns, skin reactions, or respiratory complications from prolonged exposure.
The impact of these injuries can be life-changing, leaving workers uncertain about their future. Fortunately, New Jersey workers' compensation laws cover all these types of injuries, offering essential safeguards for employees and their loved ones.
CONTACT THE LAW OFFICES OF JEFFREY M. BLOOM(201) 257-9902Workers' Compensation Benefits in Bergen County
Workers' compensation in New Jersey ensures that those injured on the job receive both financial support and medical care. Whether it’s a temporary setback or a permanent condition, these benefits are designed to help you recover.
1. Medical Benefits
If you're hurt at work, all treatment costs, including hospital care, surgeries, physical therapy, and medication, are covered, provided you use approved healthcare providers designated by your employer's insurance.
2. Temporary Disability Benefits
If your injuries prevent you from working for more than seven days, you can qualify for temporary disability benefits. These payments offer 70% of your average weekly wages, up to the state-set maximum ($1,065 per week for 2022). Benefits are available until you’re medically cleared to return to work or for up to 400 weeks, whichever comes first.
3. Permanent Partial Disability Benefits
For workers who face lasting but not total impairments, compensation depends on the extent of the disability. Payments follow schedules laid out under New Jersey law.
4. Permanent Total Disability Benefits
For those unable to resume any type of work, permanent total disability benefits provide ongoing payments equal to two-thirds of their average weekly wages, subject to statutory caps.
5. Death Benefits
If a worker loses their life due to a workplace injury, their dependents may receive death benefits. These include a percentage of wages and reimbursement for funeral-related expenses.
In Bergen County, most cases are handled at the Hackensack Workers’ Compensation Court, located at 60 State Street, Hackensack, NJ. Navigating this court system can be overwhelming, which is why seeking the support of a knowledgeable attorney is essential.
How To File A Workers’ Compensation Claim
Securing your benefits depends on following New Jersey’s process precisely. To help you get started:
- Report The Injury: Notify your employer immediately, providing full details about the incident and the injury. Timeliness here is crucial.
- Seek Authorized Treatment: Only visit healthcare providers approved by your employer’s workers' compensation insurance, as treatments from unauthorized clinics won’t be covered.
- File The Claim: Your employer must report the injury to their workers' compensation insurance carrier. If benefits are denied, you can escalate the issue by filing a claim petition or requesting an informal hearing.
Filing the necessary paperwork quickly and accurately is critical. Delays or mistakes could jeopardize your benefits. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, a legal advocate can ensure everything is handled correctly.
Why Legal Representation Is Crucial
While New Jersey requires workers' compensation insurance for all employers, securing the benefits you’re entitled to isn’t always straightforward. Employees often encounter challenges like denied claims, delayed payments, or unfair treatment by insurance providers.
This is where the LAW OFFICES OF JEFFREY M. BLOOM can make a difference. Jeffrey M. Bloom has spent nearly 37 years helping people across Bergen County navigate complex legal situations. His approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a determination to fight for the rights of workers. Whether you’re filing an initial claim or addressing a dispute, our team is prepared to provide personalized support and strong advocacy to secure the benefits you deserve.
Contact The LAW OFFICES OF JEFFREY M. BLOOM For Help
Workplace accidents certainly affect your physical health, but they can also disrupt your entire life. At the LAW OFFICES OF JEFFREY M. BLOOM, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with a work-related injury. Let us simplify the legal process, so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.
Contact us today at (201) 257-9902 to schedule a consultation. We’ve been proudly serving the Bergen County community for decades, helping injured workers regain stability and peace of mind after life-changing accidents. For more information about Bergen County, learn more here.
Jeffrey M. Bloom and his team dedicate themselves to protecting the rights of injured workers. Don’t wait to get the guidance you need, call today and take the first step toward securing your future.
CONTACT THE LAW OFFICES OF JEFFREY M. BLOOM
