As remote work continues to reshape the professional landscape, many New Jersey workers are discovering new freedoms, along with new legal uncertainties. One growing concern? What happens if you get injured while working from home? While it may feel like home isn’t a “real” workplace, the law says otherwise. Under New Jersey workers’ compensation rules, remote workers may still be entitled to legal protection and benefits, as long as the injury is considered work-related.
This guide outlines everything you need to know, step-by-step, if you’re injured while working from home in New Jersey—including what qualifies as a workplace injury, how to report it, and your legal rights moving forward.
Remote Work Is the New Normal—But It Comes with Risks
According to a 2023 report by the U.S. Census Bureau, over 27.6 million Americans now work primarily from home—a figure that surged during the pandemic and remains high in states like New Jersey. While remote work offers flexibility, it also introduces new risks, especially when employees are responsible for their own workspaces.
A recent survey by the National Safety Council found that over 35% of remote employees report experiencing musculoskeletal pain, often related to poor workstation ergonomics. In New Jersey, these injuries may qualify for workers’ comp benefits if they occur while performing job-related duties.
1. What Counts as a Work-Related Injury While Working from Home?
New Jersey law defines a work-related injury as one that arises “out of and in the course of employment.” This definition extends to remote work, as long as you were performing job duties when the injury occurred.
Examples of injuries that may be covered:
- Tripping on loose carpeting while walking to your home office to attend a virtual meeting.
- Developing back or wrist pain from an improperly set up workstation.
- Straining your shoulder lifting work-related materials or packages.
- Falling down stairs while retrieving client files.
What may not be covered:
- Personal injuries that occur while you’re off the clock or on an unrelated break (e.g., cooking lunch, caring for children).
- Injuries during recreational or household tasks, even during work hours.
Tip: The key legal factor is whether you were actively engaged in a job-related task at the time of the injury.
2. Report the Injury as Soon as Possible
In New Jersey, workers’ compensation laws require that injuries be reported to your employer promptly—ideally within the same day. Delays in reporting may lead to complications or even the denial of your claim.
What to include in your report:
- Date and time of the incident
- Specific location (e.g., “home office” or “basement workspace”)
- Description of the activity you were doing
- Nature and severity of the injury
Always make the report in writing—email is best. Retain a copy for your personal records.
3. Keep Detailed Documentation
Remote injury claims often face more scrutiny. To strengthen your claim, keep comprehensive records of the incident and its aftermath.
Important documents to keep:
- Medical records, doctor notes, and receipts
- Screenshots of work emails, chats, or task logs showing your activity at the time
- Photos of your work environment, showing any hazards
- A personal injury journal tracking symptoms and progress
According to a study in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, injuries that include medical documentation and written employer communication are 3x more likely to be successfully approved for benefits.
4. Know Your Legal Rights Under New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Law
New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system covers most injuries that happen while working, even if you work from home.
Benefits you may be entitled to:
- Medical treatment, including diagnostics, surgery, therapy, and medications (must be through an employer-approved provider)
- Temporary disability payments, equal to 70% of your average weekly wage (up to a state maximum), if you’re out of work for more than 7 days
- Permanent partial or total disability, if the injury results in long-term impairment
- Job retraining, in some cases, where returning to previous duties is not possible
Note: You do not need to prove fault. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you can receive benefits even if the accident was unintentional.
5. When Should You Consider Speaking with a Legal Professional?
Although workers’ compensation is designed to protect employees, home-based injuries can be harder to prove. Employers or insurers may try to argue that the injury didn’t occur during work, wasn’t related to job duties, or was caused by your own negligence. Here’s when to call a lawyer:
Consider legal help if:
- Your employer denies or ignores your claim
- Your benefits are delayed, reduced, or cut off
- You are asked to return to work before you’re medically cleared
- You have a pre-existing condition that complicates the injury
- You’re unsure how to file or navigate the process
How a New Jersey Workers’ Comp Attorney Can Help:
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Prove that the injury was job-related, even in a remote setting
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Handle communication with insurers and negotiate benefits
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Represent you in hearings or appeals if necessary
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According to the New Jersey Department of Labor, over 20% of workers’ comp claims involving non-traditional workplaces face delays or disputes, making early legal advice helpful.
6. How to Prevent Future Injuries While Working from Home
As more companies embrace permanent hybrid or remote models, New Jersey employees should take proactive steps to create a safer, more ergonomic work environment.
Safety checklist:
- Use a chair with lumbar support and adjustable height
- Position your monitor at eye level to avoid neck strain
- Use wrist rests and a full keyboard to prevent carpal tunnel
- Keep wires and trip hazards neatly tucked away
- Take hourly breaks to stand, stretch, and move around
Fact: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that employers are responsible for ensuring safe working conditions—even for telecommuters.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights, Even at Home
Suffering a work-related injury while working remotely can be stressful and confusing. But in New Jersey, you’re still protected under workers’ compensation law—regardless of where your injury occurs, even if it’s in your home office.
Here’s what to remember:
- Injuries must be reported immediately.
- Only work-related tasks during work hours will qualify.
- Documentation is critical to a successful claim.
- You don’t need to prove fault, but you may need to prove timing and activity.
- Legal guidance can help if your claim is delayed or denied.
As remote work continues to grow, staying informed about your rights can make all the difference in protecting your health, your job, and your future.
