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Workers’ Compensation
Injuries in the workplace should lead to comprehensive medical care, time for recuperation, and money to live off of while you recover. Unfortunately, though, receiving these is often an uphill battle for workers.
If you are injured and struggling to get the compensation you deserve, contact an Escondido workers’ compensation lawyer today. An experienced injury attorney can help you build your case.
Understanding California’s Workers’ Compensation Process
When a worker is injured in California, they have 24 hours to report their injury to their employer. Within that same 24-hour period, the employer must supply the injured worker with a claim form. This form must be filled out and returned to the employer. California Workers’ Compensation Law requires the employer to respond within 90 days to accept or deny the claim. During that time, the employer can request the worker see the company doctor, receive medical records or take a statement.
Once the claim is accepted, the injured worker may select a doctor from an employer-provided list. They will receive temporary disability benefits until the condition becomes either permanent or stationary (no longer improving). At this point, the injured worker will be evaluated to determine the level of permanent disability.
Having an attorney through this process eases stress and ensures all bases are covered from a legal perspective.
Frequent Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries vary dramatically from industry to industry, but there are trends worth noting. The most common workplace injuries stem from overexertion. When employees are asked to lift, push, pull, carry or hold heavy items, they are often not trained on the best methods to do so. Too often, this leads to strains, sprains and other injuries.
Slips and falls are also incredibly common in the workplace. Wet, slippery floors caused by spills are more hazardous than people realize. Falls can cause serious head, neck and spine injuries that permanently impact a person’s life. A fall from a ladder or roof due to faulty equipment can be deadly.
These kinds of accidents can be prevented through proper training, cleaning, and maintenance of the property, but unfortunately, injuries can still occur even in the best of conditions.
What Workers’ Compensation Covers
On-the-job injuries are stressful enough, but when the recovery time puts people out of work, many are left wondering how they will pay their bills. Mounting medical bills and lost wages are not things an injured worker should shoulder themselves. An Escondido workers’ compensation lawyer can help victims recover:
- Hospital bills
- Surgeries
- Medication
- Physical therapy
- Medical aid devices
- Lost wages
- Permanent disability payments
- Temporary disability payments
- Vocational retraining costs
- Life pension payments
The workers’ compensation system can be confusing even for the most updated and knowledgeable worker. A skilled Escondido attorney can help guide potential clients through the maze of paperwork so they do not suffer financially because of their injuries.
An Escondido Workers’ Compensation Attorney Protects Workers’ Rights
If you or a loved one was injured on the job and need help with your workers’ compensation claim, consider reaching out to an Escondido workers’ compensation lawyer. Confidential consultations ensure individuals understand their rights and best course forward.
Understanding the overlapping of workers’ compensation and Social Security disability benefits can be confusing. Do not let paperwork and red tape overwhelm you and prevent you from getting the help you need.
Deadlines matter in workers’ compensation claims. Do not delay in seeking legal advice. Call an Escondido workers’ compensation lawyer today.