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Filing A Workers’ Compensation Claim In New Jersey

If you get hurt on the job – or develop a work-related illness or injury – you should inform your employer right away. They can get the ball rolling on workers’ comp benefits. Generally, you should start receiving benefits within about two weeks. You should also receive medical coverage through workers’ comp.

If you’re running into delays or your claim gets denied, talk with a lawyer. You can still pursue benefits by:

  • Seeking an informal hearing
  • Filing a formal claim petition

Navigating these processes with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation can be tricky. You’ll need strong documentation and medical evidence to prove your workers’ compensation case. What’s more, strict deadlines apply. Your best bet is to secure legal advice by working with an experienced workers’ comp attorney.

What Is The Timeline Of A Workers’ Compensation Claim?

There are many key deadlines to understand in pursuing a workers’ compensation claim. Below are some of the most important timelines.

  • Reporting your injury or illness to your employer: You have 14 days after an accident, injury or illness to report the occurrence to your employer.
  • Becoming eligible for benefits: If you can’t work for seven or more days because of a job-related injury or illness, you’re eligible to pursue workers’ comp. The days don’t need to be consecutive, and they include holidays and weekends.
  • Filing a workers’ comp claim: You generally have two years from the date of your injury or illness to file a claim. In the case of a gradual onset illness or injury (such as repetitive stress injuries), the clock starts ticking on the date you knew (or should have known) your ailment was work-related.
  • Receiving benefits: Generally, you should expect benefits within two weeks after filing a workers’ comp claim. If your claim is unjustifiably and unreasonably delayed, you may be entitled to an increase in your benefits as a penalty.

Get The Help You Need To Pursue A Successful Claim

For guidance on any aspect of filing a workers’ comp claim in New Jersey, contact Johnson Law Firm LLC in Freehold. Our attorney has decades of experience in this niche area of law. Call 732-333-8751 or contact the firm online to learn more.