If you’ve been injured on the job in New Jersey, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits — regardless of who was at fault. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system designed to protect employees and ensure they receive medical care and wage replacement while recovering from workplace injuries or illnesses. But navigating the claims process isn’t always straightforward. Understanding your rights can help you secure the benefits you’re entitled to and avoid costly delays or denials.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. In New Jersey, almost all employers are required to carry this insurance coverage. Workers’ compensation typically covers:
- All necessary and reasonable medical treatment
- Temporary disability benefits (while you are unable to work)
- Permanent partial or total disability benefits (if your injury results in lasting impairment)
- Death benefits for surviving dependents if the injury results in a fatality
This system ensures that injured workers can access treatment and financial support without needing to prove employer negligence. However, it also limits your ability to sue your employer directly for additional damages like pain and suffering.
How to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in New Jersey
To begin the process, you must notify your employer of your injury. This can be done verbally, but it’s best to provide written notice. Once informed, your employer is required to notify their insurance carrier, who will then evaluate your claim.
If your claim is approved, you should begin receiving benefits quickly. If it’s denied — or if your benefits are delayed or terminated prematurely — you have the right to file a formal claim with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation. At that point, legal representation becomes especially important.
Common Reasons Workers’ Comp Claims Get Denied
Even valid claims are sometimes denied. Common reasons include:
- Failure to report the injury in time
- Disputes over whether the injury is work-related
- Incomplete or inconsistent medical records
- Allegations of fraud or pre-existing conditions
Having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side helps prevent these issues and provides crucial advocacy if your claim needs to be appealed.
Why ASK Law Firm LLC?
ASK Law Firm LLC has helped countless injured employees across New Jersey navigate the workers’ compensation system. We understand how insurance carriers operate and know how to push back against denials, delays, and lowball settlements. Our team ensures that your medical care is approved, your disability payments are timely, and your rights are fully protected throughout the claims process.
Whether you’re filing a new claim or appealing a denied one, contact a trusted Woodbridge workers’ compensation attorney at ASK Law Firm LLC for the guidance and representation you need.
Third-Party Claims and Additional Compensation
In some cases, a third party — such as a subcontractor, property owner, or product manufacturer — may have contributed to your injury. This allows you to file a separate personal injury lawsuit in addition to your workers’ comp claim, opening the door to compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and other damages not covered by workers’ comp.
We’re Here When You Need Us
We proudly serve injured workers from two convenient locations:
Offices:
15 Warren St #20, Hackensack, NJ 07601
1460 US-9 Suite 301, Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Final Thoughts
Workers’ compensation is supposed to provide peace of mind for injured employees — but the process can be confusing and adversarial. At ASK Law Firm LLC, we’re committed to helping you get the benefits you deserve with professionalism, compassion, and persistence. Don’t try to handle your case alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and protect your rights every step of the way.
