Workers' Comp — Your First Steps

Workplace injuries are often associated with laborers, but according to the Insurance Information Institute, workplace injuries occur in many industries. In addition to laborers, truck drivers, nurses and nursing assistants, retail workers, and construction workers are all in the top 10 industries with the most job-related injuries.

If you were hurt while performing a job-related duty, the providers at Advance Medical Group, with offices in Hackensack, Paramus, and Haledon, New Jersey, can help you get the medical care you need.

We can also help you explore your next steps when starting a workers’ compensation claim.

Seek medical attention

When you’re injured on the job, the first and most important step is to receive medical attention. Not only does this ensure swift treatment, but it also allows our doctors to provide an accurate diagnosis. Your diagnosis will be vital to your workers’ comp claim.

Below is a list of common occupational injuries and illnesses:

• Chronic back pain and injuries related to heavy lifting or repetitive motions
• Illnesses related to exposure to mold and other toxins
• Illnesses related to wood dust exposure, pesticides, or lead
• Strains from repetitive motions (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Injuries from slips and falls

Remember, workers’ comp can cover both injuries (such as getting hurt by a tool at work) or illnesses (such as respiratory illnesses caused by toxin exposure).

Determining eligibility

Once you receive medical attention for your injury, your next step is to find out if you’re eligible to file a workers’ comp claim. To be eligible you must:

• Sustain an injury while working
• Have an employer with workers comp insurance
• File your claim by the required deadline

Tip: Even if you’re not sure you can file a claim, it’s still essential to receive medical attention immediately to prevent unwanted complications from your initial injury.

Speak with your employer

If you’ve been injured on the job, you must inform your employer. Under New Jersey law, though, the report doesn’t need to be in writing. You should inform your employer as soon as possible after the injury so you can start the process of filing your claim and receiving your benefits.

 Your employer should then:

• Give you a First Report of Injury form to fill out
• File the claim with their insurance agency
• Notify you of workers’ comp benefits

Under New Jersey law, workers’ comp benefits can cover your medical expenses (including related treatments and prescriptions), disability benefits, and more.

Were you injured on the job?

When you’re hurt at work, it can be overwhelming to figure out your next steps. At Advance Medical Group, we’re here to help you get the medical treatment you need to feel better and guide you with your next steps for receiving compensation.

To schedule an appointment, call the office nearest you or request an appointment on our website.