What Happens if I’m Exposed to Coronavirus at Work?
Back in November of 2019, reports began surfacing about a “mystery” illness emerging in China. As experts began researching and identifying the illness, they soon learned that they were dealing with a novel disease.
Since that time, the Coronavirus disease has spread to nearly every inch of the globe. Governments are responding by telling all non-essential workers to stay at home to prevent catching and spreading Covid-19. Are you one of the many essential workers who may be exposed to the virus? What are your options for recovery if you catch it? Learn everything you need to know about Covid-19 and workers’ compensation below.
What is Covid-19? Am I at Risk in New Jersey?
Covid-19 is a new type of virus that’s circumnavigating the globe. Cases can range from mild to severe, with the most serious cases requiring hospitalization and breathing treatments. Due to the novelty of the disease, medical experts have not yet developed any type of treatment or cure for the symptoms of Coronavirus.
Despite the disease forming elsewhere, the U.S. has quickly become the epicenter of the outbreak. The U.S. has the most confirmed cases in the world. New Jersey’s governor, Phil Murphy, explained how the state reported nearly 2,500 new cases in only one day.
Will Workers’ Compensation Cover my Covid-19 Losses?
As a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, most employers have been ordered to send their employees home until the threat passes. Despite that, thousands of essential workers are still required to go to work. These essential employees include:
- Health care workers
- Grocery store employees
- Pharmacy workers
- Truckers
- Construction workers
- And more
If you get exposed to the virus at work, then you’ll likely incur a number of losses. If your case is severe, then you might need to be placed on a ventilator. Your lungs could suffer significant long-term damage. Even worse, you could spread the disease to vulnerable family members.
If you contract Covid-19 at work, then you may be eligible to pursue compensation through a workers’ compensation claim. If you start experiencing symptoms, then reach out to your employer about the situation. Call your doctor, and then reach out to an attorney for help getting compensated.
Click the link for more in-depth information on the statutes of limitations when injured at work.
Contact a Red Bank Workers’ Compensation Lawyer to Discuss Your New Jersey Covid-19 Case
A workplace injury can be devastating, particularly if it prevents you from returning to work for an extended period of time. Although New Jersey workers’ compensation laws are supposed to provide you with reimbursement for medical expenses and replacement pay for missed time at work, it is not always easy to get the workers’ comp benefits you deserve. That is why you should speak with a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer about your situation and get guidance throughout the claims process. The experienced Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Drazin & Warshaw, P.C. represent clients in Long Branch, Brick, Holmdel, Lakewood and throughout Monmouth County, Middlesex County, and Ocean County, New Jersey. Call (732) 576-8860 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation about your work injury case. Our main office is located at 25 Reckless Place, Red Bank, NJ 07701, and we also have offices in Hazlet and Brick.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
