Mistakes You Can Make That Put Your Benefits at Risk
When you’ve been hurt at work in New Jersey, you have the right to file for benefits under the state’s workers’ compensation system. Even though the process seems relatively straightforward, many legitimate claims are initially denied. It’s critical that you have experienced counsel to protect your rights.
There also are ways you can risk losing workers’ comp benefits after your claim has been approved. Here are some things to avoid doing that might jeopardize your right to benefits:
- Trying to do things you shouldn’t—Just because your application for workers’ compensation has been approved does not mean the workers’ comp insurance company and your employer are done investigating your claim. It’s not uncommon for the insurer to send out a private detective to surveil you. If you are seen (and possibly photographed) engaging in activities that suggest your injuries are not legitimate, you may lose your right to benefits.
- Failing to go to medical appointments or follow doctor’s orders—If you don’t go to scheduled visits or do what your doctor prescribes, the insurance company may conclude that your health has been fully restored.
- Getting in trouble with the law—If you’re incarcerated for any reason, you may lose workers’ compensation benefits, as you would be ineligible to work.
- Working somewhere else—You can have income from another source when you’re collecting workers’ compensation, but you must report it, and it may be used to offset your workers’ compensation benefits. Failure to report outside income can lead to the termination of benefits.
Contact the Cintron Firm
At the Cintron Firm, LLC, we offer more than 14 years of experience to people in New Jersey facing a broad array of legal challenges. Attorney Mark Cintron has worked as a prosecutor and has extensive courtroom experience, so he’s always ready, willing, and able to protect your interests before a judge or jury.Contact our office online or call us at 201-791-1333 or 917-494-5695 to set up an appointment.
