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Are you a Public Employee and suffered a career-ending Injury on the job? What are your rights?

Suffering a career-ending injury is a major challenge for public employees. It’s important to understand your rights and the benefits available to secure your future. In Winfield Park, NJ, those facing such injuries should know that Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits are available for individuals completely unable to work. A Disability Attorney in NJ can guide you through the process, focusing on appeals to help you access the benefits you deserve following this life-altering event.

Your Rights and Protections

After suffering a career-ending injury on the job in New Jersey, you have several rights protected by state laws, specifically under the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Act. These rights are designed to support employees who can no longer work due to injuries sustained while performing their job duties. Here is an overview of your rights:

• Medical Treatment: You have the right to receive necessary and reasonable medical treatment for your injuries at the expense of your employer or their insurance carrier. This includes hospital services, medical treatment, and prescriptions related to your work injury.
• Temporary Disability Benefits: If your work-related injury or illness prevents you from working for more than seven days, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. These benefits amount to approximately 70% of your average weekly wage, subject to minimum and maximum limits, and are payable until you are able to return to work or until you reach maximum medical improvement.
• Permanent Disability Benefits: If you have a permanent impairment from an injury, you could receive permanent disability benefits, depending on your impairment’s type and severity. These benefits are divided into Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) for partial impairments, and Permanent Total Disability (PTD) for those fully unable to work.
• Death Benefits: If a work-related injury or illness results in death, the dependents of the deceased worker may be entitled to death benefits. These benefits include burial expenses up to a certain limit and compensation to dependents, based on a percentage of the worker’s wages.
• Right to Appeal: If you disagree with the decision regarding your workers’ compensation claim, you have the right to appeal the decision. This process involves filing a claim petition or an application for an informal hearing with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: For those unable to return to their previous job due to their injury, New Jersey may offer vocational rehabilitation services. These services aim to help injured workers find new employment within their physical capabilities.

It’s important to note that the specific circumstances of your case can affect your rights and the benefits you may be entitled to. Consulting with Winfield Park, NJ pension disability attorney can provide you with guidance tailored to your situation and help ensure your rights are protected.

Guide to Benefits After a Public Employee Injury

If you’re a public employee facing a career-ending injury, follow these steps to secure your benefits quickly:

• Report the Injury: Inform your supervisor in writing immediately and keep a copy.
• Seek Medical Attention: Visit a doctor ASAP, follow their advice, and save all medical records.
• File for Workers’ Compensation: Complete the necessary forms from your employer and include medical documentation to cover medical bills and lost wages.
• Check Eligibility for Disability Benefits: Review your contract or speak with HR to see if you qualify for disability retirement benefits for financial support.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you encounter issues with your claim, consulting with a lawyer can clarify your rights and next steps, especially for appeals.
• Document Everything: Maintain records of all related interactions and applications, essential for your claim’s success.
• Adhere to Medical Care: Continue treatments and document your progress to support your claim.
• Meet Deadlines: Stay on top of all claim-related deadlines to ensure your health and claim remain valid.
• Appeal if Denied: Be prepared to provide additional evidence or seek another opinion if your claim is rejected.
• Plan Ahead: Explore options like training or rehabilitation that could enable a shift to new work opportunities.

Protect Your Future

Facing a career-ending injury can be daunting, but with Feeley & LaRocca, LLC, public employees in Winfield Park, NJ, aren’t alone. Our firm is here to provide crucial support, especially through the appeals process, helping you secure the workers’ compensation and disability retirement benefits you deserve. We understand the significance of your situation and are dedicated to championing your rights.

You’ve dedicated yourself to serving the community; now, let us serve you in ensuring a secure and promising future. Contact us today to see how a disability attorney in Winfield Park, NJ can make this challenging time a foundation for stability and reassurance.