Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that provides benefits to people injured on the job. Employers carry workers’ comp through their own insurance program or through a third-party. In the state of New Jersey, any business with one or more employees must carry coverage. Employers not covered by federal programs and out-of-state employers who enter a contract of employment in NJ must also carry coverage.
To get you up to speed on the latest information regarding New Jersey workers’ comp insurance, we’ve addressed the most common questions we hear from clients. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to call Danskin Agency, your local insurance service for companies and public entities.
What types of injuries are covered under workers’ comp?
Workers’ compensation covers most injuries that happen on the job. However, if a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol when they’re injured, coverage probably won’t apply. Coverage may also be denied if the injury is self-inflicted, suffered when committing a crime or suffered when violating company policy. What you may find interesting is that injuries off the job site may still be covered. For example, if an employee is traveling for work or running errands for the office and hurts themselves, they are protected.
Does workers’ compensation provide short- or long-term coverage?
Some types of injuries do receive longer term coverage. Repetitive stress injuries, such as tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tennis elbow, often require rehab and therapy. This treatment is typically covered under workers’ compensation. Long-term coverage may also be provided for conditions that are a result of the working environment, such as heart or lung diseases.
Are all employees covered under workers’ compensation?
Not necessarily. First, not all employers are required to have workers’ compensation. It depends on the number of employees, the nature of the business and the type of work. In the state of NJ, laws are strict, and businesses are expected to carry workers’ comp with one or more employees. Second, some employees may not be covered, such as seasonal or temporary workers.
What expenses does workers’ comp cover?
A workers’ compensation policy pays for all medical costs needed to diagnose and treat the problem. It also provides disability payments when the employee is unable to work. Usually, disability payments come out to be about two-thirds of normal pay. Depending on the injury, it’s also possible that workers’ comp will cover rehabilitation and retraining.
How can I reduce injuries in the workplace?
Good question! There are many steps you can take to reduce risk, but going about them can be a challenge. For your convenience, Danskin Agency works closely with our clients to address risks in the workplace and ways to prevent them, such as by making common sense safety improvements, providing employee education and creating a program to reward employees.
If you are a business owner, it’s important to know your responsibilities to your employees. Call Danskin Agency to learn more about your options.