Being injured at work or suffering an illness that was caused by the work environment leaves you in a challenging position. While your medical bills mount, your earnings are likely to plummet, which can make reaching your fullest recovery much more difficult. As an employee, you are protected by the workers’ compensation system, and an experienced Cape May County workers’ compensation lawyer at Matarazzo & Lubcher is standing by to help.
The Workers’ Compensation System in New Jersey
Employers in the State of New Jersey are required to purchase workers’ compensation insurance to cover their employees. This coverage takes effect when an employee is injured on the job or develops a work-related illness. In workers’ compensation claims, the issue of negligence is not a factor that helps streamline the process.
Benefits to Employees
Workers’ compensation insurance allows you, as an employee, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are covered. You are not required to prove your employer’s negligence the way you would have to in a personal injury claim. In exchange, you give up the right to the more complete coverage that personal injury law affords.
Benefits to Employers
Employers are responsible for the cost of workers’ compensation insurance, but they are relieved of the burden that comes with personal injury claims. The compensation associated with personal injury claims is more comprehensive, and the process tends to be more expensive and lengthier. Such claims can also jeopardize a company’s profitability.
Your Workers’ Compensation Settlement
Workers’ compensation entitles you to coverage for your reasonable and necessary medical bills and to a specific percentage of your lost earnings. Your settlement structure will depend on which of the following your work-related illness or injury is classified under:
- Temporary total disability, which applies if your injury or illness keeps you off the job temporarily
- Permanent partial disability applies if you suffer a lasting impairment, but can still work in some capacity
- Permanent total disability applies if your impairment prevents you from engaging in any form of gainful employment
Employees who are injured on the job are entitled to this coverage. You should know, however, that the involved insurance provider and your employer are invested in keeping your settlement low.
Protect Your Claim from the Start
Your claim will not be exactly like anyone else’s. You and everyone else who files a workers’ compensation claim, however, are well advised to let your employers know about your work-related injuries right away. This is in addition to seeking early medical care, carefully following your doctor’s instructions, and retaining professional legal counsel early on.
Experienced Cape May County Workers’ Compensation Attorney
The well-respected Cape May County workers’ compensation lawyers at Matarazzo & Lubcher dedicate our imposing practice to helping valued clients like you recover their complete losses. We’re here for you, too, so please don’t hesitate to contact us online for more information today.