New Jersey Workers Suffer Horrific Injuries Before the Holidays

As the holidays approached in 2022, New Jersey workers pushed themselves hard to provide for their families, purchase presents, and cover the ever-increasing cost of living in the United States. The problem is that many of these workers were operating in highly dangerous workspaces, making the chances of injury very high. Unfortunately, New Jersey has been struck with a string of horrific workplace accidents in the lead-up to the holidays, leaving many families dealing with pain and tragedy when they should be celebrating the end of another year. The good news is that injured workers in New Jersey can file workers’ compensation claims to cover their losses. But what should you do if you have been injured on the job in the Garden State?

Questions Raised After Worker Impaled in Paterson

 On December 15, 2022, it was reported that the OSHA was investigating a construction accident in New Jersey that left a worker impaled. The incident occurred after the worker fell down a shaft, plummeting one floor before being impaled by rebar. The metal went through his hip and chest area. Miraculously, the man survived – but with critical injuries. This highlights the fact that many construction workers put their lives on the line every single day while working in New Jersey. This man survived, but many who experience serious accidents do not. In 2020 alone, there were 82 fatal workplace injuries in New Jersey. This represents an increase over the previous year. Questions have been raised over potential violations, including the lack of handrails in a specific area.

 New Jersey Transit Bus Driver Suffers Brutal Assault

 Workplace injuries aren’t always the result of “accidents.” Sometimes, they are fully intentional acts committed by violent criminals. On December 22nd, it was reported that a New Jersey Transit bus driver had been assaulted by a group of teens. The footage was published on social media that showed the bus driver lying on the ground, surrounded by six teens. The criminals then proceeded to kick and stomp the defenseless man. Suddenly, the bus driver drew a 9mm handgun and opened fire on the teens. At least one 15-year-old was hit three times, suffering fatal injuries. Although you might assume that this represents a textbook case of self-defense, the bus driver has been charged with attempted murder and other offenses. Police say that the handgun was illegal, unregistered, and possibly stolen.

Regardless of this specific case, it seems clear that transit workers across New Jersey are suffering violent assaults at an unprecedented scale. One survey suggests that these assaults have tripled in frequency. This has led to some transit workers suing the government transit agency for failing to prevent attacks and protect innocent people who are just trying to earn an honest living. Many people have come to this bus driver’s defense, stating that he should not be held liable for defending himself against what could have easily been a deadly attack.

 New Jersey Worker Received $28-Million Settlement After Electrical Accident

 On December 21, 2022, a New Jersey worker received a settlement worth $28 million for a workplace injury that changed his life forever. The victim suffered burns across 60% of his body after attempting to complete electrical work at an office building. The plaintiff claimed that the defendants (his employer) completely disregarded proper safety precautions, putting their workers in serious danger. The incident stems from an electrical explosion that occurred at a Newark office building. The flames immediately engulfed the worker’s entire body. As of this writing, he has undergone more than 177 surgeries since the accident.

 Commercial Kitchen Fire Leaves One Worker Injured in Linden

 On December 13th, it was reported that a large commercial kitchen had been set ablaze by a workplace accident, leaving one worker with injuries. Not many other details were released, but it’s clear that this was an intense blaze that took over a large commercial building. One worker was transported to a nearby hospital for smoke inhalation, but they are expected to make a full recovery.

Where Can I Find a Workers’ Comp Attorney in New Jersey?

 If you have been searching for a qualified, experienced workers’ comp attorney in New Jersey, look no further than Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured workers in the Garden State, and we know how tragic these losses can be. You have the right to work in a safe environment. If your employer failed to provide you with a safe working environment, you have every right to turn to workers’ compensation and receive a settlement for your losses. Your settlement can cover things like medical expenses, missed wages, and much more. You can also file a workers’ compensation claim on behalf of a deceased loved one who died on the job. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan.