HELP, IF YOU'VE BEEN INJURED AT WORK
Anyone can be injured at work, regardless of the type of job they perform. However certain jobs are more dangerous than others. Despite regulations and precautions, people who work construction jobs seem to suffer injuries more often and more serious than most other jobs. These injuries can be caused by:
- Tools
- Falls
- Falling Objects
- Cranes
- Electrocution
- Fires and Explosions
- Scaffolds and Ladders
- Falling Objects
- Forklifts
- Trench collapse
If you've been injured at work, you may have two ways to recover for your injuries:
Workers Compensation
Most employers in New Jersey are required to carry Workers Compensation Insurance. This insurance provides an injured employee with temporary disability payments, medical coverage and possibly a "permanency award" , and this coverage is available to you, regardless whether you are responsible for your own injuries. The coverage has nothing to do with who's at fault. Its a trade-off, since, under most cases, you cannot sue your employer for your injuries, you're provided with this coverage. If the employer doesn't have the required coverage, you may be able to sue them.
If you're injured at work, regardless of what your supervisor or employer tells you:
1.File a report with your employer, and get a copy of the report;
2. Write down the names of all witnesses to the incident and injuries;
3. Seek medical treatment immediately;
4. Contact an attorney.
Many employers will try and persuade you not to make a report or file a claim, and may promise to pay your medical bills and give you money on the side. Don't believe them!. They may be telling you this, because they don't have the required insurance, or they don't want their premiums to increase.They may even threaten to fire you if you submit a report or claim. This is illegal, and if they make these threats, contact an attorney immediately. Again, make a note of who was present when the threat was made, or possibly record the conversation.
Third Party Claims
In addition, to Workers Compensation Insurance, if your injuries were caused by someone, other than your employer or fellow employee, you can file a claim again that party or company. For instance, if you're working on a site and a piece of equipment is defective, or another contractor, or their employee causes your injuries, you can file a claim against them.
WARNING: These types of claims are complicated, and there are specific deadlines, before which you must file your claims. If you fail to submit your claims before those dates, you may be barred from collecting any money for your injuries. Therefore, its important that contact a qualified attorney immediately after you're injured.
I have over 25 years experience handing theses types of cases. If you, a family member or friend is injured, call me for a free consultation. I'l explain how I can help.
All the Best!
RANDY C.REDDEN
(856) 448-6200
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