South Jersey Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Advocating For Those Hurt On The Job

Many people who are injured at work do not know what to do next. Some are afraid to report the injury to their employer. Some do not know how to start the workers’ compensation process. In either situation, talking to an attorney can help you get started.

At Gruccio, Pepper, De Santo & Ruth P.A., in Vineland, our attorneys have years of experience helping injured workers in South Jersey obtain the compensation they are entitled to receive after they’ve suffered a workplace accident.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

New Jersey Workers’ Compensation law allows for the payment of your medical expenses, including doctor and hospital bills, medications and medical equipment. You may also receive temporary disability payments if an authorized treating doctor indicates you are unable to work for seven consecutive days. In some cases, workers also receive rehabilitative therapy or job retraining. New Jersey also allows for permanent disability, depending on the severity of the injury.

What Happens If Your Workers’ Compensation Gets Cut Off Or Your Claim Gets Denied?

If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, it is natural for you to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. However, a denial is not necessarily the end of the road. There are steps you can take, and we are here to guide you through the appeals process. New Jersey law provides the right to appeal a denied claim, and our workers’ comp lawyers are seasoned in navigating these challenges. We will meticulously review the reasons for denial, gather additional evidence if necessary, and represent you at all hearings, fighting for the benefits you rightfully deserve.

Sometimes, workers find their compensation abruptly cut off or are pressured to return to work before they are truly ready. It’s not uncommon to be told you’re fit for work when, in reality, you’re still struggling with your injuries. If you’re facing a situation where you’re being forced into “light duty” or another role that doesn’t accommodate your medical restrictions, we’re here to step in. Your well-being is our priority, and we’ll work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the full extent of benefits to which you are entitled, including necessary medical treatment and wage replacement.

Workers’ Compensation For On-The-Job Car Accidents

Some workers who drive regularly for work face unique risks. While driving on the job, motor vehicle accidents can occur without warning. This leaves drivers to face the physical aftermath of recovering from accident injuries along with the challenge of securing their workers’ compensation benefits. Whether it’s navigating the heavy traffic of South Jersey or making long-distance deliveries, on-the-job auto accidents can have serious consequences. Occupations that are commonly affected include:

• Truck and delivery drivers
• Sales professionals
• Home health aides
• Construction workers
• Couriers and messengers

Occupational injuries among these professionals can range from shoulder and lower back issues to repetitive motion injuries and lifting-related strains, especially for those who load or unload as part of their duties. It’s crucial for these workers to understand that they are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to cover their medical expenses and lost wages.

In addition to workers’ compensation, if an accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, the injured worker might have a valid personal injury claim. This means they could be eligible for compensation beyond what workers’ comp provides, addressing the full extent of their damages. At Gruccio, Pepper, De Santo & Ruth P.A., we are adept at assessing all avenues of compensation to ensure that our clients receive the support they need to recover and return to their livelihoods with confidence.

Seeking Additional Compensation From Third Parties In Workplace Accidents

In some worker’s compensation cases, defective manufactured products or faulty machinery or equipment may be the cause of your injuries. In that case, the manufacturer or contractor would be liable for your injuries as well. It takes an experienced attorney to determine whether you can file for damages from a negligent third party.

Some workers may also be eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits and survivor benefits as well. When we review your case, we will advise if you are eligible for these benefits.

Regardless of the type of work-related injury you have suffered or the cause of the injury, our attorneys are here to guide you through all aspects of the process. You owe it to yourself and to your family to obtain every dollar of compensation you are entitled to. Let us help.

Have Questions? We Can Guide You.

Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from injured workers in New Jersey. If your situation raises concerns not covered here, our attorneys are ready to help.

How Soon Must A Work Injury Be Reported In New Jersey?

New Jersey law requires injured workers to notify their employer of a workplace injury within 90 days of the accident. Missing that window can jeopardize your right to benefits entirely. Beyond the initial report, you generally have two years from the date of the injury — or from the date of your last workers’ comp payment — to file a formal claim petition. These deadlines are strict, and acting quickly gives your attorney the best opportunity to gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.

Do I Get To Choose My Own Doctor After A Workplace Injury In New Jersey?

In most cases, no. New Jersey workers’ compensation law gives employers and their insurance carriers the right to direct your medical care through authorized physicians. Seeing an unauthorized doctor without prior approval can result in those bills going uncovered. Employers must cover emergency treatment regardless of provider — that exception applies in all cases. If you feel the authorized physician is not adequately addressing your condition, we can help you explore your options, including pursuing a second opinion or challenging the care your employer’s insurer has authorized.

How Are Lost Wages Calculated Under New Jersey Workers’ Compensation?

New Jersey workers’ compensation pays temporary disability benefits at 70% of your average weekly wage (AWW), subject to the state’s annual maximum and minimum rates. The state adjusts these figures annually based on statewide wage data. If your injury results in a permanent disability, additional compensation may apply depending on the nature and severity of your condition. Understanding how those calculations work — and making sure they accurately reflect your earnings — is one of the first things we examine when reviewing a new case.

Can I File A Workers’ Comp Claim And A Personal Injury Lawsuit After An On-The-Job Car Accident?

Yes, and doing so can significantly affect the total compensation you recover. Workers’ compensation covers your medical expenses and a portion of lost wages regardless of fault. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may also have grounds for a personal injury claim — one that can address pain and suffering, full lost wages and other damages that workers’ comp does not cover. At Gruccio, Pepper, De Santo & Ruth P.A., we evaluate both avenues in every on-the-job accident case to help make sure you pursue every dollar you may be entitled to.

Discuss Your Workplace Injuries With A Workers’ Comp Lawyer For Free

We would like to hear more about your workplace accident and tell you more about how we can help you with your case. Call us at 856-405-3972 or email us today to set up your free consultation.

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