Workers’ compensation is an important system in New Jersey designed to protect employees who suffer injuries or illnesses while working. Among the various types of injuries that can occur in the workplace, thermal burns are particularly severe, often leaving the victim suffering significant pain, mounting medical bills, and time away from work. Essentially, it impact an employee's life greatly. If you work in such an industry where thermal burns occur, it’s important to understand how the workers’ comp system in NJ works and the benefits you may be entitled to.

Thermal burns, which result from exposure to extreme heat, are a common risk in certain industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and food service. These injuries can range from mild to life-threatening and may require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and rehabilitation.

If you or a loved one has suffered a thermal burn at work, you can continue reading for more information about your rights under New Jersey’s workers’ compensation laws and how to navigate the claims process. We urge you to seek legal help. Our workers comp lawyers in New Jersey have years of experience in workers comp claims of various types. Call the law office of Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law to find out more about how we can help.

Understanding Workers' Compensation in New Jersey

Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a direct result of their job. In New Jersey, like many states, employers are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical costs, lost wages, and disability benefits in the event an employee suffers an injury.

The system is designed to be "no-fault," meaning that employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who was at fault for the injury. This ensures that injured workers can receive timely medical care and financial support without having to prove negligence on the part of their employer. However, navigating the workers’ compensation process can still be complex, especially when dealing with serious injuries like thermal burns.

Thermal Burns in the Workplace

What Are Thermal Burns?

Thermal burns occur when the skin or other tissues are damaged by heat, such as from flames, hot liquids, steam, or contact with hot surfaces. These burns can vary in severity:

• First-Degree Burns: Affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and usually result in redness and pain but no blisters.
• Second-Degree Burns: Affect both the epidermis and the underlying layer of skin (dermis), often causing blisters, swelling, and severe pain.
• Third-Degree Burns: Destroy both the epidermis and dermis and may extend into deeper tissues. These burns can cause numbness due to nerve damage and often require surgical intervention.

In the workplace, thermal burns can occur in a variety of scenarios. For example, a construction worker might suffer burns from hot tar, a chef could be burned by boiling water, or a factory worker might come into contact with hot machinery. Regardless of the cause, thermal burns can lead to significant medical needs and time away from work.

Workers' Compensation for Thermal Burns

If you suffer a thermal burn at work, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. In New Jersey, these benefits can cover several aspects of your recovery:

• Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation will cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your burn injury. This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any specialized treatments needed for burn recovery.
• Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits: If your thermal burn prevents you from working for more than seven days, you may be eligible for TTD benefits. These benefits are typically 70% of your average weekly wage and are paid until you can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits: If your burn injury results in a lasting impairment, you may be entitled to PPD benefits. The amount of these benefits depends on the severity of your impairment and how it affects your ability to work.
• Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits: In cases where a thermal burn results in a total and permanent disability, you may receive PTD benefits. These benefits are paid for life and are based on your average weekly wage.

Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim for Thermal Burns

To file a workers’ compensation claim for a thermal burn in New Jersey, you must report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. The employer is then required to notify their workers’ compensation insurance carrier, which will begin the process of reviewing your claim. It’s important to seek medical treatment immediately and keep all records related to your injury and treatment.

While the process may seem straightforward, complications can arise, particularly if your employer or their insurance carrier disputes the severity of your injury or the necessity of certain treatments. In such cases, having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can make a significant difference in ensuring that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

Navigating New Jersey workers’ comp claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced workers’ compensation lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.