Navigating Workers’ Compensation in New Jersey

What is Workers’ Compensation in NJ?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system designed to help injured employees get medical treatment and wage loss benefits without proving employer negligence. In New Jersey, if you suffer a work-related injury or illness, you may be entitled to treatment costs, partial wage replacement, and compensation for permanent disability. Scott Seelagy has spent over three decades helping clients understand their rights under NJ workers’ comp law.

How to File a Workers’ Comp Claim

Filing a workers' comp claim in New Jersey involves several important steps:

  1. Notify Your Employer as soon as possible—ideally in writing.
  2. Get Medical Attention from an approved doctor, as directed by your employer or their insurance carrier.
  3. Document Everything, including missed workdays, medical appointments, and expenses.
  4. File a Formal Claim Petition with the NJ Division of Workers’ Compensation if benefits are denied or delayed. This must be done within two years of the incident or last payment.

Scott assists clients through every phase of the claim process to avoid missteps and delays.

Maximizing Your Benefits (What Can You Receive?)

The benefits available through workers’ comp vary based on the injury:

  • Medical Coverage: Full payment for reasonable, necessary treatment.
  • Temporary Disability: Weekly benefits (typically 70% of pre-injury wages) while unable to work.
  • Permanent Disability: Compensation for lasting impairments, including "scheduled" losses (limbs, vision, hearing) and "non-scheduled" injuries (like the back or lungs).
  • Dependency Benefits: If a worker dies due to a job injury, their dependents may receive financial support.

If a third party contributed to your injury—such as a careless driver on a job site—you may also have a personal injury claim, in addition to workers’ comp.

Denied Claims & Legal Advocacy

Too often, workers face claim denials, delays, or lowball settlements. Scott represents clients in formal hearings, gathers evidence from medical experts, and challenges insurance tactics. Whether it's filing a motion for medical care or negotiating a lump-sum settlement, he fights to get the full compensation you deserve—not just what the insurer is willing to offer.

Why Choose Us for Your Work Injury Case

Scott Seelagy brings over 30 years of experience handling complex workers’ comp and related personal injury matters. You won’t be passed off to a case manager. Clients work directly with Scott and receive consistent updates. With a reputation for thoroughness and aggressive advocacy, he’s earned the trust of injured workers across Morristown, Union County, Union City, and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What benefits are covered under New Jersey workers’ compensation?

    Workers’ compensation in New Jersey covers several categories of benefits. These include payment for all necessary and reasonable medical treatment, temporary wage replacement if you’re unable to work due to your injury, and compensation for any permanent disability resulting from the injury. In fatal cases, the law provides dependency benefits to surviving family members. These benefits are available regardless of who caused the accident, as workers’ comp is a no-fault system.

  • Do I need a lawyer to file for workers’ compensation?

    Technically, no—but legal representation can make a significant difference in your outcome. Many workers try to handle their claims alone and run into trouble when the insurance carrier denies medical treatment, underpays benefits, or disputes the severity of the injury. Having a lawyer like Scott Seelagy ensures your paperwork is timely and accurate, and that your claim is backed by the medical and legal evidence needed to get full benefits.

  • What if my claim is denied by the workers’ comp insurance company?

    If your claim is denied or delayed, you can file a formal Claim Petition with the NJ Division of Workers’ Compensation and request a hearing. Scott can also file a Motion for Medical and Temporary Benefits to get a faster decision from a judge. Denials can be challenged, but it takes proper evidence and advocacy. You don’t have to accept a rejection without a fight.

  • Can I be fired for filing a workers’ comp claim?

    It’s illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for filing a legitimate workers’ comp claim. If you’re demoted, fired, or harassed because you reported a work injury or requested benefits, that could be a separate employment law violation. Our firm can help you pursue both the compensation you’re owed and legal remedies for any retaliation.

  • Who chooses my doctor under New Jersey workers’ compensation law?

    In most cases, your employer or their insurance company has the right to direct your medical care to approved physicians. If you go outside of this network, you may have to pay out-of-pocket. If you’re not getting the care you need, or the employer won’t approve treatment, we can take legal action to enforce your medical rights under the system.

  • Can I sue someone else for my work injury besides workers’ comp?

    Yes, if your injury was caused by someone who is not your employer or co-worker—for example, a subcontractor, property owner, or driver—you may have a third-party personal injury claim. This can allow for additional compensation beyond workers’ comp benefits, such as for pain and suffering. We routinely handle these cases alongside comp claims.

Get Help from a NJ Worker's Compensation Lawyer

If you were injured on the job, don’t navigate the workers’ comp system alone. Delays, denials, and employer pushback can make recovery even harder. Scott Seelagy represents injured workers in Morristown, across Morris County, and throughout New Jersey—fighting for the full medical care and wage benefits you’re entitled to. Consultations are free, and there’s no fee unless we recover for you. Call today to protect your rights and your recovery.

(973) 670-1557