After sustaining a serious workplace injury, few workers focus on how to get claims paid, but their focus changes once the bills start arriving. Unfortunately, by the time you learn about the extensive medical expenses, it can be too late to file a Workers’ Compensation claim. Long before a workplace injury occurs, every worker should take the time to familiarize himself or herself with the information posted in the lunchroom or elsewhere in their place of business, but the following are the two key dates to remember:

• Accident notification deadline. If you suffer a workplace injury, you need to notify your supervisor, the personnel office or anyone with authority at your place of business, according to A Worker’s Guide to Workers’ Compensation in New Jersey. You do not need to provide written notification, but you are expected to seek permission before obtaining treatment unless an emergency medical situation prevents you from making contact with your employer.
• Dispute statute of limitations. In the event your claim is denied, or even if compensation ends before you believe you can return to work, you have two years from either event to file a dispute. The NJ Division of Workers’ Compensation recommends that you seek assistance from an experienced New Jersey Workers’ Compensation attorney to learn your options and ensure that you pursue all filings properly and on time.

Naturally, not all workplace injuries or illnesses become immediately apparent. In general, the deadline dates extend to the date that a condition becomes apparent — or should become apparent ― to you. Since these deadlines can become blurred and difficult to interpret, it makes sense to seek knowledgeable legal advice as soon as possible.