What Happens If I’m Hurt on the Job in New Hampshire?

Getting hurt at work can turn your entire routine upside down almost overnight. Between medical appointments and missed paychecks, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by questions you never expected to ask. If you were injured while working in New Hampshire, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Manchester can help you understand what benefits you may be entitled to receive.

Am I Covered No Matter Who Was at Fault?

New Hampshire’s workers’ compensation system is a no-fault system, which means it generally does not matter whether you or your employer caused the accident. As long as the injury happened in the course of your employment, you are typically entitled to benefits, even if you made a mistake that contributed to the accident. This applies to part time, temporary, and even undocumented workers in most circumstances.

How Quickly Do I Need to Report My Injury?

Under New Hampshire law, you have up to two years to report a workplace injury or illness, though it is always wise to notify your employer as soon as possible. Prompt reporting helps preserve evidence and prevents any dispute later about when and how the injury actually occurred. Waiting too long can also give an insurance carrier a reason to question the legitimacy of your claim.

What Benefits Might I Be Entitled to Receive?

Workers’ compensation in New Hampshire generally provides coverage for reasonable medical treatment, a portion of your lost wages, and, in more serious cases, permanent impairment benefits or vocational rehabilitation. Under RSA 281-A:28, weekly disability benefits are typically calculated at 60 percent of your average weekly wage, subject to certain minimums and maximums set by the state each year. There is usually a short waiting period before wage benefits begin, unless your disability lasts 14 days or longer or you return to modified duty within five days of your injury.

What If My Claim Gets Denied?

Insurance carriers do not always accept workers’ compensation claims at face value. They may argue that your injury was not work related, or they may dispute the severity of your condition. If your claim is denied, you generally have 18 months to request a hearing to challenge that decision. Have you already received a denial letter and are not sure what your next step should be?

Let Our Manchester Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Help

Reaching out to an attorney sooner rather than later can help you avoid missing an important deadline and losing out on benefits you are owed. Our Manchester workers’ compensation attorneys at the Law Office of Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira PLLC handle claims, appeals, and hearings from start to finish, and we offer a free consultation to talk through your situation, so please do not hesitate to call.

Source:

dol.nh.gov/workers-compensation/workplace-injuries