No one plans to get hurt on the job, but it can turn your life upside down when it happens. Workplace injuries bring a whole new set of financial challenges: medical bills, lost paychecks, and uncertainty about the future. But you don’t have to face this alone.
The workers’ comp team at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi has your back. We’ll make sure you get the medical care, disability benefits, and lost wages you deserve under New Jersey’s workers’ compensation program, even if the accident was partially your fault
Our attorneys have a proven history of standing for our clients’ rights and securing the best possible settlements.
No case is too big or too small for our team. If you need an experienced, tough workers’ compensation lawyer in New Jersey, look no further than Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. We’ll fight to get you compensation so you can focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track.
Why Choose Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C.’s Fort Lee Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
When you face injury or loss, you deserve to get your life back on track. You may need to deal with overwhelming grief, fear, or financial worries right now.
But this is the time to learn about your rights.
Once we meet with you, our lawyers will let you know if you have a case that could lead to financial recovery.
What Sets Our Team Apart?
- Relentless Devotion: We outwork the competition, plain and simple. We live and breathe our clients’ cases, and our drive never stops.
- Respected Reputation: Our peers have voted us among the Best Lawyers in America. Judges and fellow attorneys know and respect us. They often ask us to speak on legal topics across the country. Even opposing lawyers and claims adjusters admit that they know they can wear out most lawyers, but can’t wear us out.
- Proven Trial Experience: We’re certified civil trial attorneys, meaning we’re board-certified specialists in trial advocacy. With over 90 years of trial experience and success between us, we’ve earned membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
- Unmatched Resources: We spare no expense to ensure justice for our clients. We use the latest technology and bring top professionals to research and testify on your case.
Reviews
Our clients are the best evidence of our hard work and devotion. Their testimonials prove that our lawyers handle cases with professionalism and empathy from the moment they walk through the door. They say that we make them feel cared for. We stay with our clients for years and they never forget that.
Clients praise our incredible support staff, who go above and beyond; they answer all questions, stay on top of treatments, and manage mountains of paperwork.
Our team spends countless hours meticulously preparing cases, and their hard work pays off in settlements and client satisfaction.
Workers’ Compensation Values in New Jersey
In Fort Lee, New Jersey, the value of a workers’ compensation case can vary, depending on several important details. The injury type and severity are major considerations; more serious injuries like head, spine, or limb trauma tend to lead to higher settlements.
The amount of lost wages you incur while unable to work due to the injury also plays a big role. And the total medical expenses, including treatment, rehabilitation, and future care needs, can significantly impact the overall settlement value.
If you have a permanent disability from your injury, you may be entitled to additional compensation based on impairment. And if your employer’s insurance company denies or disputes your claim, you may need legal representation, which can also affect the final settlement amount.
New Jersey has two main types of workers’ comp settlements: a lump sum payout (Section 20) or regular installment payments (Section 22).
Available Workers’ Comp Benefits
Think of workers’ compensation benefits as a complete financial protection package. This ensures you don’t go bankrupt or lose your livelihood due to a workplace injury or illness. These benefits also protect your family if you pass away on the job.
Depending on your case and your injury, you may receive several benefits:
Medical Benefits
Workers’ comp covers the full cost of care for your injury, including the ambulance, hospital stays, prescriptions, surgery, physical therapy, and more. This continues until you reach maximum medical improvement. The only catch is that you may not get to choose your doctor. Your employer may get the final say.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits
If your injury prevents you from working for more than a week, you qualify for TTD benefits. You’ll receive about 70% of your normal income during this time. The best part? This income isn’t taxed, so you keep the full amount.
Permanent Disability Benefits
If your workplace injury or illness results in a permanent disability, you’re entitled to long-term benefits. The amount depends on whether it’s considered a partial or total disability.
Partial disability means you can still work, but with some limitations. This could be a scheduled loss, like reduced limb use, or a non-scheduled loss, like a back injury.
Total permanent disability means you can’t work at all anymore. In this case, you’ll get around 70% of your average weekly pay, with minimum and maximum amounts. These benefits last up to 8.65 years.
Death Benefits
If you die on the job or from a work-related illness, your surviving family members will receive death benefits. Eligible dependents include your spouse and any children living with you. These benefits also cover funeral expenses up to $3,500.
The key is a lawyer who understands the full range of workers’ comp benefits available. This financial protection can make all the difference if you suffer a workplace injury or illness. Let Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. pursue full compensation for you.
Verdicts and Settlements
$3,200,000 - Construction Accident
To a 35 year old iron worker who fell from a steel frame building under construction due to the failure of the general contractor to provide a safe workplace which included supervision for the use of safety equipment and guide wires.
$2,325,000 - Work Site Accident
To an HVAC worker who fell through an opening in a roof. The defense argued the opening was obvious and he should have watched where he was going. We proved that the unprotected opening was an OSHA violation and the worker was entitled to a reasonable cover to protect him from an inadvertent slip and fall as required by Federal regulations.
$346,000 - Workers Compensation Claims and Hostile Work Environment
Settlement was obtained for a 34 year old schoolteacher who claimed work related injury to her neck, back, shoulders, knees and head suffered during two separate work related accidents.
How Workers’ Compensation Works in New Jersey
New Jersey has some unique workers’ compensation rules compared to other states. For example, all NJ employers must carry workers’ comp insurance, regardless of company size. Many other states only require it for businesses with a minimum number of employees.
The workers’ comp system in New Jersey has its roots in the labor struggles of the early 20th century.
In 1911, the state created the Division of Workers’ Compensation and the Workers’ Compensation Act to help employees recover medical costs and lost wages from workplace injuries.
The main goals of the NJ Workers’ Compensation Act are:
- To ensure fair and timely benefits. This is a big improvement over the old system, where employees sued their employer and fought large legal teams to get compensation.
- To require all employers to carry workers’ comp insurance. This protects workers from financial hardship due to on-the-job injuries.
- To provide benefits for temporary and permanent disabilities, even if pre-existing conditions are involved. Insurance companies may try to argue the injury wasn’t work-related, but our experienced attorneys know how to advocate for our clients.
In the past, employees had to sue their employer after a workplace injury, which was a long and costly process for everyone. Today, workers’ comp benefits like medical coverage and disability pay cover all NJ employees. However, consult a knowledgeable workers’ comp lawyer to ensure you get the full benefits you deserve.
Who Qualifies for Workers’ Compensation in Fort Lee?
You qualify for workers’ compensation if you work for a company operating in Fort Lee. This covers full-time and part-time employees, regardless of company size or how long you’ve been on the job. You’re protected from your very first day of employment.
The rules get a little trickier when it comes to independent contractors. Historically, they did not qualify for workers’ comp. However, New Jersey law may still classify you as an employee, even if your company calls you an independent contractor. Call us if this happens and we can determine if your employer misclassifed you.
If Negligence Caused Your Workplace Injury
Employers have certain legal protections regarding workplace injuries, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Even if you file a workers’ compensation claim, you may sue a third party whose negligence contributed to your injury.
Workers’ compensation typically covers medical expenses, disability payments, and some of your lost wages.
But a personal injury lawsuit against a negligent third party can compensate you for all your lost earnings, retirement contributions your employer would have made, and the cost of any future medical care you’ll need. A third party claim also covers noneconomic damages like pain and suffering.
Third-party negligence can take many forms, from a manufacturer selling faulty equipment to a contractor failing to provide a safe work environment, to a vendor creating a hazardous situation.
If someone other than your employer was responsible for the unsafe conditions that led to your injury, you may have grounds for a personal injury case.
The bottom line is, you have rights. Don’t assume workers’ comp is your only recourse. Explore whether third-party negligence played a role, and you could recover significantly more than what’s covered by the workers’ comp system alone.
Why Consult a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
The sooner you talk to an experienced workers’ comp attorney, the better. A lawyer will gather all your medical records and evaluations for your case.
An experienced workers’ comp lawyer knows the system inside and out and can fight to get you the compensation you deserve during this difficult time.
Consulting a workers’ compensation lawyer can change the game when navigating the complex system and getting the benefits you deserve. This is especially true if workers’ comp denies your claim, your employer refuses to cooperate, or you face a tricky situation like a pre-existing condition or potential for long-term disability.
Here’s a closer look at how a lawyer can help:
Mastering the Complexities
- They’ll ensure you understand your rights and entitlements under workers’ comp laws.
- They’ll guide you through the claim-filing process, completing all paperwork on time.
- They’ll advocate for you when dealing with stubborn insurance companies.
Overcoming Denials and Delays
- If your claim gets denied, they’ll help you understand why and prepare a strong appeal.
- If your employer is dragging their feet on paying benefits, they’ll take the necessary action to get your compensation.
Tackling Unique Challenges
- If you have a pre-existing condition, they’ll help prove your current injury is work-related.
- For permanent disabilities, they’ll work to maximize your benefits and future care coverage.
- They’ll ensure your workers’ comp settlement doesn’t jeopardize any Social Security Disability benefits.
- If a third party’s negligence caused your injury, they’ll pursue that claim.
Maximizing Your Benefits
- They’ll negotiate a fair settlement to cover your medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
- They’ll calculate your benefits correctly and get you everything you deserve.
- They’ll protect your best interests and fight for fair treatment throughout the process.
We hired Chris DiGirolamo as our attorney after Mike suffered a life changing injury at work. From the time we met Chris we felt we can trust him to work in the best interest for Mike’s needs. Chris is very down to earth and we felt comfortable whenever we met with him. He spoke to us so we always understood what was going on. He never threw around legal jargon that we would not be able to understand. He was always willing to ensure we knew exactly how our case was proceeding. Chris showed humanity in dealing with Mike’s Injuries and understanding of Mike’s unwillingness to accept some of the changes in his life.
Chris’s high level of energy and desire to bring a case to the best possible results were evident from day one. Our case was settled but of court with the help of a mediator and Chris was by our side explaining what was going on every step of the way. His preparation throughout the case was evident as he spoke before the mediator. It was a pleasure to watch. Chris at work and know he was working for us. He is tough and stubborn when necessary. We were also impressed by the respect shown to Chris by the retired judge we worked with as well as other lawyers. Chris was only happy with this case when he knew we had a settlement that we were very impressed with.
I am delighted to provide this testimonial for Mr. DiGirolamo. His representation of me during my case was unflagging over its four-year duration. He kept me informed, and prepared for every eventuality as the case progressed.
He understood my fears and pain, and saw to it that Workmans Comp provided support for me until my civil case was settled. He prepared me substantially whenever necessary. I was very grateful for his understanding of the disastrous effect my accident had on every aspect of my life.
He was always supportive and kind personally, and totally professional. He reminded me to be realistic about the eventual outcome, and advised me as to the importance of my demeanor and attitude.
Everyone I came in contact with at the office was polite and helpful, in particular Marisol Suarez, Mr. DiGirolamo’s paralegal assistant. I will always be grateful for the way my case was handled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Recover All Your Pay with Workers' Comp in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, workers’ compensation doesn’t cover your full salary if you can’t work due to a work-related injury or illness. Instead, you’ll get around 70% of your average weekly wage through temporary total disability benefits.
The state sets minimum and maximum limits on these benefits, which you’ll receive until you can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.
Speak with a workers’ compensation attorney in Fort Lee to get all the benefits you’re entitled to.
How Long Can You Stay on Workers' Comp in NJ?
The time you can get workers’ comp benefits in New Jersey depends on how severe your injuries are and how long your recovery takes. Temporary total disability benefits last until you can go back to your job or reach maximum medical improvement, with a 400-week limit.
If your work-related injury causes permanent disability, you could get benefits indefinitely. Since the rules can get complicated, consulting an attorney is crucial to ensure you receive full support under New Jersey law.
What Is the 26-Week Workers’ Comp Rule?
The “26-week rule” in New Jersey’s workers’ comp system means you have to wait 26 weeks after getting your final compensation payment before applying to change or reopen your case for more benefits.
This waiting period gives time to see the long-term effects of your injury and whether the original settlement was adequate. While this rule aims to balance finality and flexibility, talk to a workers’ comp lawyer who can guide you on how it applies to your situation.
Let Us Help You
Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer to be sure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to. Important deadlines are involved in reporting a workplace injury and filing a claim. A workers’ compensation attorney helps you through this process and safeguards your rights.
It’s important to note that workers’ compensation lawyers do not charge an hourly fee. Instead, they only receive a portion of your final payout. There is no risk in consulting a workers’ comp attorney, but failing could mean leaving money on the table.
Contact the experienced workers’ compensation lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C.. Call (201) 585-9111 for a free consultation.
