No one expects to suffer an injury at work. Workers deserve a safe place of employment, but incidents can and do occur. Whether an injury occurs due to an accident, or as the result of workplace violence, injured employees can file a workers’ compensation claim.
Workers who develop a job-related illness can also file for these benefits. Workers’ compensation claims are notoriously difficult to pursue, often because employers and their insurance companies fight even legitimate claims.
If you are ready to file your claim, call a Temecula workers’ compensation lawyer now. Your personal injury attorney in Temecula can help you fight for the benefits you need and deserve. These claims are time-sensitive, so do not delay. Reach out to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Temecula to learn more about your options.
Different Workers’ Compensation Injuries in Temecula
Heavy Lifting
Pulled muscles or spinal strain due to heavy lifting
Slips and Falls
Fall-related injuries, including the head or spinal injuries
Assaults
Assault injuries due to workplace violence
Auto Accidents
Auto accidents while driving on the job
Machinery
Injuries related to machinery accidents
Illnesses
Some examples can include overexertion, diseases related to toxic fumes, and stress-related illnesses.
If you’ve been injured or a loved one has been killed through an act of negligence, you need the highest level of legal representation.
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Seeking Benefits for Injured or Ill Workers
Workers’ compensation insurance policies provide health and financial benefits to injured workers. When a worker suffers a job-related injury or illness, they are likely to need medical treatment.
Often, workers need extensive medical treatment. As a hurt or sick worker recovers, they may not be able to return to work. Workers’ compensation benefits ensure that these employees are reimbursed a portion of the wages they would have earned while recovering.
Workers’ compensation claims are necessary to help employees recover and return to work. A Temecula workers’ compensation lawyer can help employees get the benefits they need.
Retaliation for Workers’ Compensation Claims
Employers often have incentives to deny a workers’ version of events during the claims process. Employers pay premiums to workers’ compensation insurance companies.
When an employee receives benefits on a legitimate workers’ compensation claim, the insurance company may increase the employer’s premiums.
So, workers’ compensation often ends up costing employers money, even though they do not directly pay benefits to the injured worker. Unfortunately, given the potentially high cost to them, employers sometimes intimidate, harass, or retaliate against workers who file these compensation claims.
It is not uncommon for an employer to threaten a worker’s job, reduce their hours, or withhold pay as a form of retaliation.
It is against the law for employers to take such retaliatory actions. When they do, an injured worker can file a workplace retaliation seeking compensation for lost wages, lost future earnings, and other damages.
Temecula Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Can Help Now
If you were hurt at work, contact a Temecula workers’ compensation lawyer today. Your attorney can help you seek the benefits to which you are entitled.
If your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company has denied your rightful claim, an attorney can help you appeal that decision.
Temecula Worker’s Compensation Injury Lawyers and Claims: Frequently Asked Questions
Our Temecula worker’s compensation attorneys answer common questions to help you understand your rights and the legal process of filing a claim or lawsuit in the city.
What benefits can I receive through workers’ compensation in Temecula?
In Temecula, workers’ compensation benefits cover a range of expenses and losses after a workplace injury. You’re entitled to medical coverage for treatments like doctor visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment. Additionally, you can receive temporary disability benefits to replace lost wages while you recover, or permanent disability benefits if your impairment is long-lasting. Workers’ compensation may also cover job retraining if you’re unable to return to your previous role and provides death benefits to dependents in fatal workplace accidents.
Can I file a lawsuit against my employer for a workplace injury in Temecula?
In most cases, you cannot file a lawsuit directly against your employer for a workplace injury in Temecula due to California’s workers’ compensation laws, which provide no-fault benefits in exchange for giving up the right to sue your employer. However, there are exceptions. You may be able to file a lawsuit if your employer engaged in intentional misconduct, failed to provide workers’ compensation insurance, or if a third party (contractor or equipment manufacturer) was responsible for your injury. Consulting with a Temecula workers’ compensation attorney can help determine the best course of action for your specific case.
How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim in California?
In California, you must report your workplace injury to your employer within 30 days of the incident to remain eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. After reporting, you have one year from the date of the injury to officially file a workers’ compensation claim by submitting a DWC-1 claim form. Missing these deadlines could jeopardize your right to benefits, so it’s important to act promptly and consult a local workers’ compensation attorney if you need guidance.
Why should I hire a Sargent Law workers’ compensation lawyer for my case?
Hiring a Sargent Law workers’ compensation lawyer gives you the advantage of local experienced legal representation focused on protecting your rights. Our team understands how overwhelming the workers’ comp process can be and will ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to, from medical coverage to lost wages. We offer a free case evaluation to review your situation and guide you on the best course of action. Plus, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront—we only get paid if we secure compensation for you.