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New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance

New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance (NJM)

New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance (NJM): Comprehensive Workers’ Compensation Insurance for New Jersey Businesses

New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance (NJM) is a leading mutual insurance company providing workers’ compensation coverage along with commercial auto, business owners policies, and other insurance products. NJM is known for its strong focus on serving New Jersey businesses with tailored coverage, competitive rates, and comprehensive claims services.

What is NJM Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory for most employers in New Jersey who have one or more employees. NJM’s workers’ comp policies help businesses comply with state law and provide medical, disability, rehabilitation, and death benefits for employees who suffer workplace injuries or illnesses. This coverage protects both workers and employers by providing no-fault benefits and limiting civil litigation.

Key Features of NJM Workers’ Compensation Coverage

  • Coverage for Medical Treatment: Pays for necessary medical expenses incurred due to injuries or illnesses arising out of employment.
  • Disability Benefits: Provides wage replacement for temporary total disability and permanent impairment.
  • Rehabilitation Support: Vocational rehabilitation and retraining for employees unable to return to their prior jobs.
  • Death Benefits: Compensation for dependents if an employee dies due to a work-related condition.
  • Compliance: Meets New Jersey statutory requirements and is supported by the NJ Compensation Rating and Inspection Bureau.

Important Legal Considerations for New Jersey Employers

  • Strict Coverage Mandates: Almost every employer with employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance or qualify as a self-insured entity, with strict penalties for non-compliance.
  • Contingent Liability for Contractors and Subcontractors: New Jersey law holds contractors liable if subcontractors fail to maintain required workers’ comp coverage, as highlighted in the Fournier Trucking decision. This means general contractors may be responsible for claims otherwise covered by subcontractors.
  • Required Coverage for Part-time and Seasonal Workers: Workers’ compensation also covers part-time and seasonal employees who are paid wages or salaries.

NJM’s Additional Services

  • Loss Control Programs: Safety consultations and tools to minimize workplace risks and reduce claim frequency.
  • Managed Care Services: Coordination of medical care to control costs and improve employee outcomes.
  • Premium Audit and Pay-As-You-Go Billing Options: Flexible premium management to accommodate payroll fluctuations.

NJM Workers’ Compensation Coverage Options for Small Businesses

Who Needs Workers’ Compensation Insurance in New Jersey?

  • Any business with one or more employees is required by New Jersey law to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This includes full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers being paid wages or salaries.
  • Sole proprietors, freelancers, and independent contractors without employees are generally not required to have workers’ comp but are advised to consider coverage for protection against work-related injuries.

NJM Coverage Features for Small Businesses

  • Medical Benefits: Pays for necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation for employees injured on the job.
  • Wage Replacement: Provides income replacement benefits if an employee is temporarily or permanently disabled due to a work-related injury or illness.
  • Death Benefits: Compensation to dependents of employees who die as a result of workplace injuries.
  • Compliance: NJM helps small businesses meet New Jersey’s mandatory workers’ compensation requirements.
  • Payroll Audits and Flexible Premiums: Premiums are calculated based on actual payroll, industry risk class, and claims history. NJM offers payroll audits to ensure you only pay for what you need.
  • Pay-As-You-Go Options: Some small businesses may opt for pay-as-you-go workers’ comp where payments are spread out and based on actual payroll, helping cash flow.

Additional Supports From NJM

  • Loss control and safety consultation services to help reduce workplace injuries and keep premiums low.
  • Managed care services designed to improve claim outcomes and speed return to work.
  • Dedicated customer service and claims support tailored to small businesses.

Why NJM for Small Businesses?

  • NJM has more than 100 years of experience serving New Jersey businesses with a strong local presence.
  • It offers personalized service through a network of local agents who understand the unique risks for small businesses in the area.
  • NJM balances competitive premiums with comprehensive coverage.
  • It provides educational resources for small business owners on maintaining safety and managing workers’ comp effectively.

NJM Workers’ Compensation for Small Businesses: Detailed Guide

Product Overview

NJM’s workers’ compensation policies help small businesses comply with New Jersey laws by providing:

  • Medical coverage for work-related injuries or illnesses
  • Wage replacement benefits for employees unable to work (usually 70% of wages)
  • Vocational rehabilitation and return-to-work programs
  • Death benefits for dependents in workplace fatality cases
  • Employer’s liability protection against legal claims related to workplace injuries

Premiums are calculated primarily based on payroll size, industry risk class, and claims history, with options for pay-as-you-go billing to assist with cash flow management.

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who needs workers’ compensation coverage in New Jersey?

All employers with one or more employees, including part-time and seasonal workers, must carry workers’ comp insurance. Some exceptions apply to sole proprietors, LLC members, and independent contractors.

2. How does NJM calculate premiums for small businesses?

Premiums depend on payroll, business type, claims history, and coverage limits. NJM offers payroll audits and flexible payment plans to accommodate small business cash flow.

3. What happens if an employee is injured at work?

The injury must be reported promptly, and NJM will cover medical treatment and wage replacement benefits while managing the claim through dedicated adjusters.

4. Can I combine workers’ compensation with other insurance products?

Yes, NJM offers a range of business insurance products including commercial auto and general liability, often bundled for convenience and savings.

5. How does NJM help with workplace safety?

NJM provides safety consultations and resources designed to help small businesses reduce injuries and lower insurance costs.

Real Case Studies

Case 1: Small Retail Store Injury

An employee slipped and fractured a wrist. NJM promptly covered medical bills and provided wage replacement during recovery, allowing the employee to return to work after rehabilitation.

Case 2: Plumbing Contractor Burn Injury

A plumber suffered burns on the job. NJM’s claim adjuster coordinated treatment and facilitated a return-to-work program with light duties, reducing lost work time.

Case 3: Food Service Worker Food Poisoning

An employee became ill from food poisoning at work, and NJM covered medical treatment and disability compensation during recovery, supporting the employee’s full return.

Case 4: Office Staff Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

An administrative worker developed repetitive stress injury. NJM provided vocational rehabilitation and covered medical therapy leading to positive outcomes.

Case 5: Landscaping Business Back Injury

A landscaper injured lifting heavy equipment. NJM managed claims smoothly and worked with the business to implement ergonomic training for injury prevention.

NJM Contact Details

  • Main Office:
    301 Sullivan Way, West Trenton, NJ 08628
  • Phone: (609) 883-1300
  • Website: www.njm.com

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