Available Workers’ Compensation Benefits: Part I
A work injury or illness can be devastating, especially if you are unable to work for an extended period of time. New Jersey’s workers’ compensation rules are designed to assist individuals in avoiding such financial hardship resulting from workplace injuries. A Sparta Workers’ Compensation Attorney at the Law Office of Maryjean Ellis, LLC will work with you to ensure you understand your rights and obtain all the benefits to which you are entitled. This two-part series focuses on the five major benefits afforded to individuals under the state’s workers’ compensation plan.
Medical Benefits
Employers in New Jersey must either carry workers’ compensation insurance or be self-insured. In either case, if you are injured or become ill on the job you are eligible to receive compensation for all reasonable costs related to:
- Medical treatment for emergency services and physician care in and out of the hospital
- In-patient hospitalization
- Other related hospitalization costs
- Prescriptions
If you are injured or become ill, it is expected that you report the fact to your supervisor or other responsible individual and obtain authorization for medical treatment. It is recognized that in the case of an emergency, time is of the essence; therefore, you can obtain emergency treatment without receiving employer authorization first. Keep in mind that you are still obligated to let your employer know as soon as possible about your injury and treatment.
Most people have their own doctor with whom they feel comfortable. It is important for you to understand that your employer may well have its own medical provider where they send injured employees, and they have the right to send you there if they so choose. If you have questions about use of your doctor or obtaining medical benefits, speak with your Sparta Workers’ Compensation lawyer, today.
Death Benefits
While it is not pleasant to consider, once in a while an employee dies as a result of a job-related injury or illness. It should, however, be comforting to know that, should this happen, your dependents will be eligible to receive workers’ compensation death benefits, including funeral expenses up to $3500. Dependents are paid 70% of the weekly deceased worker’s wages. Please note that the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development sets a statutory maximum and minimum amount each year. This could affect the amount paid to dependents.
Dependents are considered to be a spouse or civil union partner, as well as children living with the deceased employee at the time of their death. Disabled children may be able to obtain a larger payment. Other family members, such as grandparents, will need to prove that they are truly dependents of the deceased. Your Sparta Workers’ Compensation attorney can help you if you are having difficulty proving dependency or need assistance with any other issue related to death benefits.
A Sparta Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help
Work with a Sparta Workers’ Compensation attorney who can help you through the process of obtaining benefits. Call the Law Office of Maryjean Ellis, LLC today at 888-518-9017(toll-free) or (973) 940-8635 (local) today for a free consultation.