We recently obtained a total disability workers’ compensation award for a longstanding client who was a truck driver/delivery person in a very physically demanding job where he worked for approximately 34 years. He had two separate “wear and tear” occupational exposure claims in 2008 and 2012, together with a last specific workers’ compensation accident claim in 2015. All three claims were the subject of multiple awards while he was still able to continue working. He received almost $370,000 for multiple knee repairs, spine repairs and a last unoperated mid spine injury. However, these conditions then continued to worsen to the point where he needed a further surgery on his knee and lower back, following which he could no longer continue with employment.
His previous awards were all reopened and it was determined that he was entitled to more compensation regarding his first two claims and 100% permanent total disability on his last claim. Not only did he receive additional significant retroactive payments (approximately $300,000) but he is now guaranteed lifetime medical treatment for his compensable last accident, together with lifetime tax-free weekly permanency payments. If he receives payments for the next seven years, (approximately $300,000), he will have received over $1 million in total permanency payments.
This case is an example of just how significant “wear and tear” claims can be once they are determined to be compensable under the right circumstance. Physically demanding jobs can eventually take a toll on workers. We often say that Petro Cohen is a firm of “hard-working lawyers for hard-working people.”
Most hard-working people have no idea what potential significant workers’ compensation benefits can be payable for their medical conditions because they normally think their body is breaking down due to aging. While the aging process plays a role, they can also potentially have a valuable workers’ compensation claim depending on the nature of the medical condition itself and the extent of physical exertion involved in the performance of the work they perform.
Housekeepers, nurses, maintenance workers, construction workers, plumbers and truck drivers are the types of occupations that often give rise to potential “wear and tear” claims which most people treat under their normal health insurance because they are unaware that workers’ compensation might also be available under the right set of circumstances. Petro Cohen is highly experienced in this area of workers’ compensation law.
Our firm has been helping New Jersey injured workers get the benefits they deserve in all aspects of workers’ compensation for decades, especially in the area of “wear and tear” occupational exposure which is misunderstood by most people and even many lawyers. We can normally advise you if we think you have a case with a one-time no charge consultation. If we take your case, you are only charged if there is a recovery. If you think you may have a potential claim, do yourself a favor and give us a call.
We welcome all inquiries.
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