New Jersey Work Injury Lawyers Ready To Help You
A work injury suddenly involves complex rules and deadlines you never knew existed, making you question how to protect your family’s financial stability.
If you face an uncertain recovery after a workplace accident, a Hackensack workers’ compensation lawyer can provide the clear direction you need. Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. protects the rights of injured workers in our community. Call (201) 585-9111 today for a confidential consultation
Why Choose Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Choosing a law firm to handle your work injury claim is a critical decision that can shape your recovery and your family’s future. Our firm has deep roots in Bergen County, and we advocate for our neighbors with unwavering commitment and care.
Deep Roots in Bergen County
We’re not a distant law firm that treats Hackensack as just another pin on a map. Our attorneys have an intimate knowledge of the local courts, industries, medical providers, and most importantly, the people of Bergen County.
From hospital employees at Hackensack University Medical Center, to warehouse and construction workers along River Street and Main Street, to county employees serving near The Green, we represent the people who keep Hackensack running.
Our local insight and long-standing community ties strengthen every claim we pursue.
Proactive Approach To Avoid Problems
Our legal team takes a proactive approach from the very beginning. Instead of waiting for an insurance company to deny a medical procedure or delay a check, we build a comprehensive file of evidence to anticipate and counter their tactics.
By documenting your injury and its impact thoroughly from the start, we position your claim for a smoother process and reduce the likelihood of common disputes.
A Record of Protecting Workers’ Rights
Our firm has a proven track record of securing outcomes that help injured workers in Hackensack move forward. We prepare every case with the thoroughness it demands, from gathering essential medical records to communicating with insurance carriers on your behalf.
We handle the legal burdens so you can concentrate on what is most important: getting better.
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.
Securing the Full Range of Workers’ Compensation Benefits
After a workplace injury, your immediate priorities are your health and financial security. New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system is designed to address these needs by providing specific benefits to injured employees.
When you hire Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi P.C., we will explore a variety of benefits to determine where your case fits. Take advantage of our free consultation and call us at (201) 585-9111 to discuss your case with an experienced Hackensack workers’ compensation lawyer.
The types of benefits you may receive include one or more of the following:
- Permanent Total Disability Benefits (PTD): This benefit covers employees who are unable to return to any gainful employment because of a work-related injury. These injuries may involve the loss of limbs, eyes, or other critical body parts that make it impossible to work.
- Permanent Partial Disability Benefits (PPD): These benefits apply to workers who have sustained a lasting impairment from a workplace injury but can still perform some type of work. Examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, amputation of a finger or hand, loss of vision in one eye, or hearing loss.
- Temporary Total Disability Benefits (TTD): When an employee is completely unable to work for more than seven days due to a job-related injury, they may qualify for temporary total disability benefits. These payments generally equal 70% of the worker’s average weekly wage, subject to state minimum and maximum rates.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits: You may be eligible for assistance if you need retraining or rehabilitation to help you return to suitable work after your injury.
- Lost Wages: Workers who cannot perform their regular job or must work reduced hours because of an injury can receive compensation for lost income through temporary or permanent disability benefits.
- Medical Benefits: Workers are entitled to medical treatment for all reasonable and necessary care related to a workplace injury, including doctor visits, surgery, physical therapy, prescriptions, and future medical needs as approved by the employer or insurer.
Problems can arise if an insurance carrier disputes the necessity of a specific treatment or pushes for a premature return to work. We intervene to protect your right to receive the care your condition requires.
Our Hackensack workers’ compensation lawyers ensure that your benefit checks are calculated correctly and arrive in a timely manner, preventing unnecessary financial strain on you and your family.
When you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), a doctor will evaluate you for any permanent partial disability. This evaluation results in a disability rating, which determines the amount of your final permanency award.
We advocate for a fair evaluation of your impairment to secure a just award that reflects the true extent of your condition.
Potential Third-Party Claims
While you generally cannot sue your employer for a work injury, you may have a claim against a negligent third party. For example, if you were injured on a job site due to a subcontractor’s error or by a negligent driver while you were operating a vehicle for work, you may have a separate personal injury claim.
This action can provide compensation for damages not covered by workers’ comp, and our Hackensack workers’ compensation lawyers can handle both claims for you.
Common Challenges Injured Workers in Hackensack Face
The path to receiving workers’ compensation benefits isn’t always straightforward. Insurance companies may create obstacles that complicate your ability to receive timely medical care and wage replacement.
For hardworking individuals in Hackensack, these challenges can feel discouraging. Preparing for these potential hurdles ahead of time helps you anticipate what may come. A Hackensack workers’ compensation lawyer can help you overcome these common issues.
Insurance carriers may create obstacles to your recovery, such as:
- Questioning the Injury: The insurer might claim your injury happened outside of work or resulted from a pre-existing condition.
- Disputing Medical Necessity: An insurance company could refuse to approve a specific medical procedure or test recommended by your doctor.
- Pressuring a Quick Return: The carrier may push your doctor to release you back to work before you are medically ready.
- Delaying Payments: The company could unreasonably delay your temporary disability checks, causing significant financial stress.
What To Do When a Claim Is Unfairly Denied
Receiving a letter that denies your claim can cause immense stress, but a denial doesn’t always close the door to benefits. Insurance carriers must provide a reason for their decision, and you have the right to appeal.
A denial may happen for various reasons, from a missed deadline for reporting the injury to a dispute over the cause of the injury.
Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. can file a formal claim petition on your behalf with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation, initiating a legal process to compel the insurer to provide your benefits.
Handling Medical Treatment Disputes
Disagreements often arise over the type or duration of medical care. An insurance company might refuse to approve a specific surgery recommended by your doctor, or it may pressure the physician to release you back to work before you have fully healed.
We advocate for your right to receive appropriate care by presenting strong medical evidence to the court. Your Hackensack workers’ compensation lawyer can also seek a second opinion to confirm the necessity of a disputed treatment. This proactive approach helps keep your recovery on track.
Actions That Protect Your Rights After an Injury
Taking the right steps from the very beginning protects your ability to receive workers’ comp benefits in New Jersey. These actions establish a clear record of your injury and your efforts to obtain the necessary care.
Take these five steps after a work accident in Hackensack:
- Report the Injury Immediately: Notify your supervisor about your accident and injury in writing as soon as possible.
- Seek Medical Attention: Get a medical evaluation from an authorized provider promptly, and make sure to describe how the injury happened.
- Follow Doctor’s Orders: Adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by your authorized physician and attend all follow-up appointments.
- Keep Detailed Records: Maintain a file with all paperwork related to your injury, including medical reports, work-restriction notes, and any correspondence from the insurance company.
- Seek Legal Counsel: Speak with an experienced attorney to protect your rights and understand your options.
Verdicts and Settlements
$3,200,000 - Fall From Building
A 35 year old iron worker 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 - Fall Through a Roof
An HVAC worker fell through the 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 coverage to protect him from an inadvertent slip and fall as required by Federal regulations.
$800,000 - Workplace Safety
To an electrician who suffered flash burns when he plugged in a meter to read the electric usage of a shopping mall tenant.
How Workplace Accidents Happen in Hackensack
A serious injury can happen in any job setting, from an office building on Main Street to a bustling construction site near Route 17. The workers’ compensation system addresses injuries that arise from a wide variety of workplace conditions and incidents.
Many claims originate from four common scenarios:
- Unsafe Property Conditions: A fall on a wet floor, a trip over a poorly placed electrical cord, or an accident caused by an unstable ladder can result in a significant injury. Your employer has a responsibility to keep work areas free from such correctable hazards.
- Repetitive Physical Stress: Many job duties require you to lift heavy objects, bend frequently, or perform the same motion all day. This repeated physical strain on your back, shoulders, and wrists can cause cumulative injuries that require extensive medical care.
- Vehicle and Equipment Incidents: Accidents involving company cars, delivery trucks, forklifts, or other machinery represent a major cause of serious harm. These incidents often occur because of insufficient training, a lack of safety gear, or poor equipment maintenance.
- Exposure to Harmful Environments: Certain jobs expose workers to dangerous substances like chemical fumes or constant, loud noises. Over time, this exposure can lead to serious respiratory illnesses, poisoning, or permanent hearing loss.
FAQ for Hackensack Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
How Soon After an Injury Do I Have To Notify My Employer in New Jersey?
You must notify your employer of a work-related injury as soon as possible. New Jersey law requires that notice be given within 90 days of the accident or when you become aware of the injury.
Waiting too long to report can jeopardize your right to benefits, so provide written notice to your supervisor or HR department immediately.
What Kind of Benefits Can I Receive Through Workers’ Compensation?
Injured workers in New Jersey can receive several types of benefits, including payments for all necessary and reasonable medical treatment, temporary disability benefits to replace a portion of your lost wages, and permanency benefits if you have a lasting impairment from your injury.
The specific benefits you receive depend on the nature and severity of your workplace injury.
Can My Employer Retaliate Against Me for Filing a Claim?
No, New Jersey law prohibits employers from firing or discriminating against employees simply for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you face demotion, termination, or any other adverse action after reporting an injury, you may have a separate legal claim against your employer for unlawful retaliation.
What if My Own Mistake Caused My Injury?
New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system is a no-fault system, which means you’re generally eligible for benefits regardless of who caused the workplace accident. As long as you were performing your job duties and your injury wasn’t self-inflicted or the result of intoxication, you can still receive benefits.
Why Do I Need a Hackensack Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for My Case?
An experienced Hackensack workers’ compensation lawyer protects your rights and manages the complex legal process, including the critical appeals process.
A lawyer files all forms correctly, advocates for you in disputes with the insurance company over medical treatment or benefits, and works to secure a fair permanency award for you.
Securing the Benefits You Need
Dealing with a work injury often feels like a journey with no clear map. The confusion about your medical treatment, your next paycheck, and your job’s future can be draining. You don’t have to find your way through this challenging time alone.
A clear plan, presented by a trusted local lawyer, replaces that confusion with a sense of relief and purpose. A conversation with an experienced Hackensack workers’ compensation attorney can put you back on solid ground.
For a clear path forward with your claim, contact Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. at (201) 585-9111 to schedule a free consultation.
