Working hard to support your family shouldn’t put your health at risk, but workplace environments can expose employees to harmful conditions. Occupational diseases often develop over time, leaving you overwhelmed with medical bills, lost wages, and an uncertain future. Without proper legal help, you might not receive the compensation you need to recover.

An experienced occupational disease lawyer can guide you through the workers’ compensation process, fight for your rights, and secure the benefits you deserve.

Whether your respiratory issues stem from chemical exposure at a facility on Quakerbridge Road, repetitive strain injuries occurred at an office near Lawrence Shopping Center, or asbestos exposure at a site along Route 1 caused your illness, an experienced Lawrence Township occupational disease lawyer at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman can help you seek justice.

Call (609) 520-0900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

How Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman Can Help with an Occupational Disease Claim

When dealing with a work-related illness, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman offers comprehensive legal support to help you secure the necessary benefits and compensation. Here’s how we can assist:

Expert Evaluation of Your Case

Our attorneys will thoroughly assess your situation to determine the validity of your claim and identify the evidence needed to build a strong case. Whether your illness is respiratory, musculoskeletal, or caused by chemical exposure, we’ll ensure no detail is overlooked.

Guidance Through the Workers’ Compensation Process

Filing an occupational disease claim requires meeting strict deadlines and following New Jersey’s legal requirements. We’ll handle all the paperwork, communicate with your employer and their insurance provider, and make sure your claim is filed correctly.

Maximizing Your Compensation

We aim to secure the full range of benefits available, including medical coverage, lost wages, and disability payments. Our team understands how to counteract any attempts by insurers to undervalue or deny your claim.

Advocating on Your Behalf

If your claim is denied or you face challenges proving your illness is work-related, Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman will fight for your rights. Our attorneys are experienced in negotiating with insurance companies and representing clients in court when necessary.

No Upfront Costs

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay us unless we win your case. This ensures that you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.

Trust the experienced team at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman to guide you through this challenging process and fight for the justice you deserve.

Common Types of Occupational Diseases in Lawrence Township, NJ

Work-related illnesses can profoundly impact employees across various industries in Lawrence Township. Occupational diseases often develop from repeated exposure to harmful substances, unsafe environments, or repetitive tasks. 

Recognizing the type of illness you’re suffering from is the first step in securing the workers’ compensation you deserve. Below are some of the most common occupational diseases affecting workers in Lawrence Township:

• Asbestosis: This condition is caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos, often in construction, manufacturing, or shipyard jobs. It leads to scarring of lung tissue, resulting in severe breathing difficulties and an increased risk of lung cancer.
• Hearing Loss: Continuous exposure to loud machinery or equipment in factories or construction sites can cause permanent hearing damage. Hearing loss can significantly impact your ability to work and communicate effectively.
• Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI): RSIs, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, occur from performing the same motions repeatedly, often in office jobs or assembly line work. These injuries cause pain, numbness, and reduced mobility.
• Black Lung Disease: Coal miners and workers exposed to coal dust are at risk of developing this severe lung condition, which causes chronic coughing, difficulty breathing, and long-term health complications.
• Occupational Asthma: Inhaling harmful substances like dust, chemicals, or fumes in the workplace can trigger asthma. Symptoms include wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing, which can worsen with continued exposure.

If you believe your illness is work-related, the Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman attorneys can help you pursue a claim and secure the benefits you deserve.

Proving the Connection Between Occupational Disease and Workplace Exposure

Demonstrating that your occupational disease is directly linked to workplace exposure can be one of the most challenging aspects of filing a claim. Employers and insurance companies often argue that your illness may have developed outside of work. That’s why having a skilled occupational disease attorney on your side is crucial to gathering evidence and building a strong case.

Documenting Workplace Hazards

To prove the connection, it’s essential to establish that your job involves exposure to harmful conditions. This may include toxic substances, repetitive motions, or hazardous environments. Documentation like safety reports, job descriptions, and workplace inspections can help support your claim.

Medical Evidence is Key

Your attorney will work with medical experts to confirm that your condition aligns with known occupational diseases related to your work environment. Diagnostic reports, medical records, and expert opinions are critical to showing how workplace exposure caused or worsened your illness.

Proving the Employer’s Role

Workers’ compensation laws in New Jersey don’t require proving employer negligence. However, you must show that your illness resulted from your job duties. This might involve demonstrating exposure to asbestos, coal dust, loud noises, or repetitive tasks specific to your role.

Filing an Occupational Disease Claim for Workers’ Compensation

Filing a workers’ compensation claim for an occupational disease in New Jersey involves specific steps and deadlines. Missing even a minor detail could delay or deny your claim. Here’s what you need to know about the process:

Notifying Your Employer

The first step is to inform your employer about your illness. In New Jersey, you must provide notice as soon as you know your condition is work-related. Failing to notify your employer promptly could jeopardize your claim.

Seeking Medical Treatment

Your employer’s insurance provider may require you to see an approved doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Be sure to follow all prescribed medicines and retain medical records, as these will be crucial in proving your claim.

Filing the Claim

Your employer or their insurer should file the workers’ compensation claim on your behalf. However, ensuring the claim is accurate and includes all necessary information, such as your diagnosis, medical records, and proof of workplace exposure, is essential.

Handling Disputes or Denials

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman can represent you during appeals if your claim is denied or contested. Our attorneys will work to demonstrate the connection between your illness and your job, ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

Navigating Complex Cases

Filing an occupational disease claim can be particularly challenging if symptoms develop over time. Our team will help you gather evidence, consult medical experts, and meet all filing requirements to strengthen your case.

Trust Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman to guide you through the workers’ compensation process and fight for the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Contact Our Lawrence Township Occupational Disease Lawyers for a Free Consultation

If you’re suffering from a work-related illness, don’t face the legal challenges alone. The experienced occupational disease lawyers at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman are here to help you navigate the workers’ compensation process and secure the benefits you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you have no upfront cost. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on your recovery.

Call (609) 520-0900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.