Accidents happen all the time. Work accidents are among the most common. That is why New Jersey has set up the workers’ compensation system. This is a no-fault insurance your employer must carry to provide you benefits if you suffer an injury on the job.
While it is fairly easy to get workers’ compensation benefits for a work injury, you should understand the system because in some cases, you may not qualify for all benefits. It is important to know what you are eligible for and what could prevent eligibility in the event you do need to use workers’ compensation.
Limitations on benefits
The New Jersey Business & Industry Association explains that in all cases, you can get medical benefits that will cover your medical expenses. However, it is not so easy to get benefits for lost wages. There are strict requirements to get this type of payment. You have to miss a certain number of days, and your injury must meet specific requirements.
The nature of the injury
Only legitimate injuries qualify for workers’ compensation coverage. If you are not actually injured, then the medical professionals on your case will discover this, and you will not get benefits. In addition, if the investigation shows you intentionally injured yourself or that you were violating safety rules when you had your accident, this could also prevent you from getting any benefits.
Not following the rules
If you fail to provide all the necessary information or do not report your injury in a timely manner, you could lose eligibility for benefits. It is essential that you make sure to provide all required information and do everything asked of you throughout the process to ensure you remain eligible.
Workers’ compensation can be quite handy if you suffer an injury at work. It is a right you have under the law, but if you are not careful, certain things you do could make you lose your benefits.
