In New Jersey, if you have been injured in a work-related accident you are entitled to temporary disability payments, also known as income benefits, which can begin as early as two-weeks after the filing of your workers’ compensation claim. This means that within two-weeks of the filing of the complaint, the employer can provide the injured party with a check to cover lost wages as a result of the work related accident. Ordinarily, the injured worker is paid approximately 70% of the lost income for temporary disability. This amount is limited by a maximum weekly wage which changes each year. These temporary disability payments will continue until the employee is deemed fit to return to work. Benefits are available regardless of fault. It makes no difference
whether the accident was the employee’s fault, the employer’s fault, or the fault of a third party. Further, even if the employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, the employee can recover from the Uninsured Employers Fund in New Jersey. As a result, it is essential that you contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to represent you throughout this process.
In addition to lost income, the injured party may also recover medical benefits and permanent disability depending on the nature and extent of the injury. In addition, the injured worker may be able to file a third party claim against another entity responsible for the work-related injury. As you can see, it is imperative that you contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer to represent you and evaluate your claim. Randolph H. Wolf is available at (732)741-4448 to provide you immediate assistance with regard to your work related injury.