In the event of an injury or illness resulting from work-related activities, employees are eligible for compensation to cover lost wages, medical bills, and other damages. In California, laws have been put in place to safeguard workers against the financial strain caused by workplace accidents or injuries.
The Department of Industrial Relations in California reports that almost 500,000 work-related injuries and illnesses occur each year in the state. This translates to an average of 1,400 injuries daily. Given these staggering numbers, it is crucial that employees are aware of their rights and can access reliable legal counsel.
To ensure that injured workers receive the compensation they deserve, a workers' compensation attorney can offer guidance through the intricate legal procedures. Our team of professionals is well-versed in the challenges of workplace injuries and is dedicated to advocating for our clients' rights. We firmly believe that no worker should suffer financial hardship due to an injury or illness caused by their job.
What Types of Injuries are Covered
As lawyers who specialize in workers' compensation, we are frequently asked about the types of injuries that fall under its coverage. In general, injuries that occur while on the job, whether physical or psychological in nature, are included in workers' compensation. This encompasses everything from accidents and repetitive motion injuries to exposure to harmful substances and even stress-related injuries. It is worth noting that pre-existing conditions may qualify for coverage if they are worsened by work-related activities.
According to the National Safety Council, there were 5.3 million non-fatal workplace illnesses and injuries in the United States in 2019. Each injury resulted in an average of 104 missed days of work. This underscores the importance of having a workers' compensation lawyer by your side to ensure that you receive the compensation that you are entitled to.
Our team recently represented a construction worker who injured their back while lifting heavy objects on the job. We were successful in securing compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and future lost earnings due to their inability to continue working in their prior occupation. This case is just one example of how workers' compensation can be a vital resource for individuals who are injured while on the job.
How to File a Claim
Filing a claim for workers' compensation can be a challenging task, but it is vital to make sure that injured employees receive the benefits they are entitled to. The initial step is to inform the employer about the injury as soon as possible. This should be done in writing and within 30 days of the injury. If the injury is not reported within this timeframe, the claim may be rejected.
Once the injury has been reported, the next step is to seek medical attention. While the injured worker has the right to choose their own doctor, it is important to note that the doctor must be approved by the workers' compensation insurance company. Our team of professionals can assist in locating an approved doctor and navigating the often-confusing workers' compensation process.
After receiving medical attention, the claim can be filed with the workers' compensation insurance company. This can be a complex process, and it is essential to have a knowledgeable and experienced team on your side. We at Long Beach Workers Compensation are committed to helping injured employees receive the benefits they deserve and ensuring that the workers' compensation process is as seamless as possible.