Reporting an Injury at Work in New Jersey

A workers’ comp lawyer explains what you need to do

If you were hurt in an accident at work and want to know what you should do when reporting your injury, we can help you navigate the process so that you can get the benefits you deserve. Shebell & Shebell, LLC has been fighting for injured workers since 1927 and knows what it takes to get a positive outcome in your case. Discover what an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can do for you. Contact us today for a free consultation. We have an office conveniently located in Shrewsbury.

When you sustain a workplace injury or occupational illness, workers’ compensation benefits can help pay for expenses that arise as a result of your condition until you recover and you’re able to return to work – but there are rules and guidelines you must follow. Failure to follow the correct procedures can cost you your right to collect benefits, and one of the most critical steps you need to take when you’ve been hurt at work is reporting your accident and injury.

We get a lot of questions about filing a report. “Where do I file a report?” “How long do I have to file a report?” “How do I write a report?” Our firm can help you with the answers.

How long do you have to report a workers’ comp injury?

If you were injured in a workplace accident, you must give notice to your employer to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. There are very strict deadlines for when you have to report your accident, so you should report it right away. The Worker’s Compensation statute says that there are situations in which you may be barred if you don’t notify your employer within just 14 days of the injury. Our attorneys are experienced in situations in which it has been longer than 14 days, so you should not delay in contacting us immediately.

Different deadlines apply to the first notice of your accident to your employer, and when you can actually file a claim petition for benefits in Worker’s Compensation Court. Our attorneys can answer your questions and provide you with advice on how to report the accident to your boss. You should not delay in providing notice of your injury to your employer, as giving notice to your employer initiates the claims process and you could be barred from obtaining benefits if you wait too long. There are some instances where giving a written notice to your employer about the accident and your injury is recommended.

Should I report my work injury?

Yes. Failure to report a workplace injury may result in you losing your right to collect workers’ compensation benefits and having to pay out of pocket for any expenses related to your injury. These benefits can pay for medical expenses that arise from your workplace injury, a portion of your lost wages, and more.

That’s why if you sustained a workplace injury – even if you think it’s minor – you should report it to your employer right away and contact one of our attorneys to guide you through the process. Let our family help yours.

Can you get fired for not reporting an injury at work?

While there are laws in place to protect you from retaliation by your employer if you sustain a workplace injury, we have seen companies try to take action against an employee. For example, your boss may claim you violated company policy by not reporting your work accident right away.

In addition to handling worker’s compensation matters, we have attorneys on staff who are experienced employment lawyers who can help guide you through this difficult process. Together we may potentially challenge your boss for what you believe is a wrongful termination.

Even if you’re fired after you’ve been hurt at work, you still have the right to pursue certain benefits and should speak with one of our workers’ compensation lawyers for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Take control of your claim

After you’ve sustained a workplace injury, it can be confusing and overwhelming trying to understand all the steps you need to take to qualify for benefits. While the system is designed to help injured workers, if you fail to file a work injury report, make a mistake in the claims process or miss important deadlines, you could miss out on the benefits you desperately need and deserve.

Let Shebell & Shebell guide you through this process. Our lawyers can handle every aspect of your claim and make sure your rights are being protected throughout the entire process. Learn how an experienced New Jersey worker’s compensation attorney can help you. Contact us today for your free consultation.