Our workers’ comp attorneys at Krivitzky, Springer & Feldman understand that we are living in trying times due to the spread of COVID-19. When you are hurt at work or suffer a job-related illness, employers in New Jersey have a legal obligation to provide workers’ compensation benefits to cover your medical costs and a portion of lost wages. Many employers have been forced to close their doors or suspend operations, and workers are concerned and about their health and worried about how they’ll support their families. Depending on the specific situation, if you have been infected with COVID-19 in the scope of your employment, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
Sick Leave And COVID-19
Although many employers are stepping up to the plate and providing paid sick leave, for some workers it may not be enough, especially if they don’t have health insurance. On March 18, 2020, the President signed the “Families First Coronavirus Response Act,” which provides two weeks of sick leave to some workers. Some states and local governments have also passed legislation intended to help workers who fall ill. However, when faced with the confusing maze of workers’ compensation, New Jersey Earned Sick Leave, and Coronavirus-specific legislation, workers who contract COVID-19 or who are required to self-quarantine may not know where to turn.
Some Workers Are More Vulnerable Than Others
Workers in the health care industry, nursing homes, restaurants and hospitality, public safety, and emergency services are particularly vulnerable to being affected by the virus. Not only can it have a serious impact on their health, but it may also have a significant impact on their financial security, especially for lower-wage earners like restaurant workers, nurse’s aides, home health caregivers, and those who do janitorial work. That’s why it’s so important to seek the workers’ comp benefits you may be entitled to if you believe you’ve contracted COVID-19 in the workplace.
What To Do If You Believe You Have Contracted COVID-19 At Work
If you think you may have been infected with COVID-19 at work, you may be able to file a workers’ comp claim. Whether you waited on, treated, or worked with someone who had the virus, each circumstance is different, so it is best to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can help you sort it out and determine your best avenue for receiving both medical and cash benefits. Of course, it is critical to follow the CDC guidelines for self-quarantining and taking care of yourself if you’re sick. Call your doctor for more specific medical advice and guidance. Even if you are ill, you or a loved one can contact a workers’ comp attorney online to get started with pursuing workers’ compensation benefits.
Much Is Unknown About COVID-19
Because COVID-19 is a new virus, it is difficult to say what its long-term effects will be on workers’ health. It may also be tough to prove that a worker contracted it on the job since they may have caught it somewhere else. Even if someone fully recovers there is a chance that their lung function and capacity may be permanently reduced, which could make it difficult for them to eventually return to the same job, depending on their duties. In this case, a worker could be eligible for permanent disability benefits. Although there is much uncertainty surrounding the outcome of COVID-19, consulting with a skilled workers’ comp lawyer can give you peace of mind, help you get the care you need, and protect your financial future.
Contact A Jersey City Workers’ Comp Lawyer
If you or a loved one is in quarantine due to exposure to the Coronavirus at work, our compassionate team at Krivitzky, Springer & Feldman can assess your case, help you understand your rights, and advise you on the best course of action. Contact us online or call us at 201-798-2711 in Jersey City or 973-874-0556 in Newfoundland, NJ. Our workers’ comp lawyers serve clients in Jersey City, Newfoundland, Vernon, Kinnelon, Jefferson, and throughout the State of New Jersey. Se habla Español.
