Work-Related Car Accidents in New Jersey
Workplace motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of work-related deaths in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2017 alone, nearly 1,300 workers died in work-related crashes. New Jersey drivers who are injured on the job may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, and our South Jersey Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers are here to help you receive the benefits you deserve.
Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation
An employee’s injuries must be work-related to qualify for workers’ compensation; therefore, those who are injured while at work are eligible. However, even employees who are injured away from the workplace may qualify for benefits, including those who:
- Have no fixed place of work
- Run errands on behalf of their employer
- Perform off-site work that benefits their employer
The workers’ compensation system is no-fault; therefore, employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who was at fault for their accident. However, to qualify, workers must have been injured while they were acting in the course of employment. Generally, those who are injured while commuting to and from work are not able to collect benefits. Also, employees who were not acting in the interest of their employer or who violated the law at the time they were injured will be barred from receiving compensation.
Traveling Workers
Many workers travel as part of their job, which puts them at risk of being involved in an accident. Delivery drivers, nurses, truck drivers, salespeople, and emergency medical personnel are just some examples of the workers who may become injured while traveling for work. Such workers, as well as the dependents of those who are fatally injured in workplace motor vehicle accidents, may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other benefits.
Traveling workers are not the only employees who may receive workers’ compensation in New Jersey. Those who are injured in motor vehicle accidents while traveling somewhere for work-related reasons may also be eligible for benefits and should seek the counsel of a qualified attorney in their local area.
Common Workplace Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries
Those involved in workplace motor vehicle accidents may sustain a wide variety of injuries ranging from minor to severe. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately three million people are injured in motor vehicle accidents each year. Common types of compensable injuries include:
- Burns
- Concussions
- Cuts and lacerations
- Fatal injuries
- Internal injuries
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Whiplash
Reporting Requirements
New Jersey employees must report their injuries to their employers as soon as possible. If medical treatment is required, the employer may select the treating physician. Employers must then file a First Report of Injury with the state and decide whether to accept the claim.
Employers may choose to dispute claims based on whether the injury was work-related, among other factors. Employees whose claims are denied may file a formal Claims Petition or an Application for an Informal Hearing with the Division of Workers’ Compensation. There is a two-year statute of limitations for workers’ compensation cases in New Jersey; therefore, it is important for injured workers to remember that they must file their claim within two years from the date they were injured to remain eligible for compensation.
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys at Pietras Saracino Smith & Meeks, LLP Represent Workers Injured in Motor Vehicle Accidents
If you were injured while acting in the scope of your employment, contact our motor vehicle accident lawyers in New Jersey for assistance with your claim. We will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we represent clients throughout South Jersey, including the City of Camden. To schedule a free consultation, please complete our online contact form or call us at 856-761-3773.
