Slip-and-Fall Injuries at Work in New Jersey
A wet floor in a break room, an icy walkway at a construction site, or a poorly maintained staircase in an office can lead to a serious slip-and-fall accident. These incidents are among the most common causes of workplace injuries in New Jersey, affecting workers in every sector from retail to industrial labor. At Matarazzo & Lubcher, our workers’ compensation attorneys provide the aggressive representation needed to ensure that the workers’ compensation system does not ignore slip-and-fall victims.
The Impact of Workplace Falls
While some falls result in minor bruises, many lead to significant orthopedic injuries, including broken wrists, fractured hips, and torn knee ligaments. Head injuries are also a major concern, as the impact of a fall on a hard surface can cause concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries. In areas like Cherry Hill, Mount Laurel, and Pleasantville, where winter weather often creates hazardous walking conditions, the frequency of these accidents increases significantly.
The recovery period for a complex fracture or a head injury can be extensive, requiring multiple surgeries and months of rehabilitation, all of which should be covered by your employer’s insurance.
No-Fault Protection and Potential Challenges
New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system is no-fault, meaning you are entitled to benefits even if you tripped over your own feet or didn’t see a “wet floor” sign. However, insurance adjusters often look for ways to shift the blame or minimize the severity of the fall. They might suggest your injury was caused by a personal medical issue, like dizziness, rather than the environment, or they may claim you weren’t paying attention at the time.
Our attorneys are prepared to counter these defenses. We focus on the facts of the accident and gather evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and maintenance logs. By establishing the professional context of the fall, we ensure your right to medical care and temporary disability benefits remains protected throughout the life of your claim.
Navigating the Claims Process
Following a slip-and-fall, it is essential to document the scene if you are physically able to do so. Taking photos of the hazard that caused you to fall, whether it was a spill, uneven pavement, or debris, can be invaluable. You should also ensure that an incident report is filed with your employer immediately, and that the report accurately describes the cause of the fall.
Our firm handles the communication with the insurance company, so you don’t have to. We ensure that you are seeing qualified doctors who understand the mechanics of fall-related injuries, and that all your symptoms, including those that might appear days later, such as neck pain or headaches, are properly documented and treated.
Consult with Our Experienced Cherry Hill Legal Team
If a workplace fall has left you unable to work or facing mounting medical bills, you need a legal advocate on your side. Matarazzo & Lubcher has a long history of helping New Jersey workers face the challenges of the workers’ compensation system. We provide clear, honest advice and pursue the full benefits you deserve.
Contact our office today to speak with one of our attorneys about your slip-and-fall accident. Call 856-460-5805 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.