What is the basis of New Jersey worker’s compensation?

In New Jersey, worker's compensation operates on a no-fault basis, meaning that employees are entitled to benefits for work-related injuries or illnesses regardless of who is at fault for the incident. This system is designed to provide injured workers with timely medical benefits and wage loss compensation without needing to prove negligence on the part of the employer.

The no-fault nature of worker's compensation simplifies the process for injured employees, as it allows them to receive necessary support quickly without undergoing lengthy legal disputes. This system ensures that workers have a clear path to receive compensation while also limiting the potential liability for employers, thereby encouraging a more cooperative workplace environment in health and safety management.

In contrast, a fault-based system would require proof of negligence, which could delay compensation and add to the complexity of claims. Shared responsibility and employer liability, while relevant concepts in some contexts, do not accurately define the overarching principle of New Jersey's worker's compensation framework. The focus is clearly on a no-fault approach, streamlining support for injured workers while balancing interests between employees and employers.