New Law Increases Compensation for New Jersey Workers’ Hand or Foot Injuries

On January 21, 2020, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a new law (S-782/A-1110) that increases compensation for workers who injure a hand or foot while working.

Essentially, this new bill provides a higher compensation to workers who injured their hand, foot, or fingers while on-the-job. And it added an even greater increase for serious hand or foot injuries.

Specifically, the law “increases the number of weeks that an employer will pay” when one of their workers injures their hand or foot, plus it now provides increases in awards for loss of function of the injured worker’s fingers. Previously, hand and foot injuries have been compensated with a relatively small number of weeks compared to those involving other body parts, such as a back, shoulder, hip, head or neck. When these body parts are injured, the injured worker receives a higher amount of compensation.

The workers’ compensation statute requires that an employee who is hurt on the job must report the injury to their employer as soon as possible. Upon notice to your employer of the accident, you are entitled to three benefits. They are:

1. All of your medical treatment and bills will be covered as long as you go to an authorized doctor
2. While you are unable to work and healing, you will receive 70% of your wages up to a state maximum
3. You are entitled to a “Permanency Award” – this applies to a functional loss or disability that is attributed to your on-the-job injury

Many work-related injuries are attributed to construction site accidents, slip and fall accidents, truck accidents, and car accidents, which often involve a third party or outside contractor. Examples include accidents involving a worker operating a forklift, or a crane, falling off a ladder, or slipping on a wet floor.

If a third-party and/or outside contractor caused or contributed to your accident, you may also be able to bring a claim for your damages from that person or company as well. These cases are commonly known as third party claims and are often complex and require a thorough evaluation. Therefore, it is very important to seek the advice of a qualified and experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney.

Get a Free Case Evaluation from Our Team of Experienced New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Claims Lawyers

The Todd J. Leonard Law Firm has over 35 years of experience handling workers’ compensation claims, and all types of serious personal injury accidents, including wrongful death claims. Todd J. Leonard is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Certified Civil Trial Attorney, and has successfully handled all types of serious accidents, representing thousands of clients throughout New Jersey. Our attorneys will fight for your rights, which includes getting the medical treatment you need, any wages you are legally owed, and compensation for your injuries. Additionally, our team of trial lawyers will be in contact with your employer’s insurance carrier to ensure you receive timely authorization for your medical treatment, and when you can return to work, if at all.

There are strict time limitations to file your workers’ compensation claim. Please give us a call today at (973) 920-7900 to request a Free, Confidential Consultation. There is never a fee unless we obtain a recovery. We have offices conveniently located in Denville, Morristown, and Newark.