New Jersey has a state-mandated workers’ compensation insurance program aimed at protecting employees. The program is designed to help you get back to work as soon as possible if you get injured or ill. In most cases, it covers hurt employees regardless of who was at fault as long as the injury or illness is work-related.
But precisely what does workers’ compensation cover? In this article, we explore how workers’ compensation payments are beneficial to employees.
Have you suffered a work-related injury or illness? A North Bergen Workers’ Compensation Attorney can help you get the support you deserve.
Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation covers work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes injuries suffered while at work or while performing a job-related task. For instance, you are eligible for benefits if you get injured during a company-sponsored event or outing. It is important to note that commuting to or from work is not considered a work-related activity.
As with every rule, there are exceptions. Workers’ compensation does not cover injuries that:
- Are self-inflicted
- Are sustained while an employee is intoxicated
- Resulted from a fight you started
- Were sustained during the commission of a crime
- Were suffered while you were violating company policy.
- Were sustained while you were outside your scope of duty
Covered Illnesses
In some cases, work-related injuries are not caused by a single accident. They could be the result of repetitive or prolonged exposure to harmful conditions. For example, an employee could develop an illness due to extended exposure to a toxic chemical. They could also suffer repetitive stress injuries or chronic illnesses from overuse or misuse.
Common illnesses covered by workers’ compensation include lung disease, heart conditions, and chronic back pain. As of 2020, you can receive compensation for an illness resulting from exposure to Covid-19.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Generally, workers’ compensation covers all costs related to your diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. It can also provide benefits to cover a percentage of your income while you are unable to work. This is usually around 70 percent of your average wage paid weekly over a specific period.
Some policies even cover an employee’s retraining after recovery. However, workers’ compensation covers more than medical costs. You can also receive benefits for the following expenses:
- Medication prescriptions
- Disability
- Doctor’s visits
- Death benefits, usually paid out to the employee’s surviving dependents.
Covered Employees
Not every employee is eligible for workers’ compensation. In fact, some employers are not even required to take out the policy. These distinctions usually vary from state to state. In some states, employers are mandated to get the cover if they have at least one employee. In others, you only need the cover if you have more than 50 employees situated in the same area.
Additionally, states often impose exclusions on the employees covered by workers’ compensation. Typically excluded workers include:
- Agricultural workers
- Casual workers
- Domestic employees
- Seasonal workers
Consult a North Bergen Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
Your workers’ compensation benefits should cover medical costs, rehabilitation, and lost income. This can give you peace of mind as you focus on your recovery. If you believe workers’ compensation might cover your injury or illness, it is advisable to speak to an attorney.
The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone are dedicated to fighting for the rights of workers. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a North Bergen Workers’ Compensation Attorney.