Have you been injured in a workplace accident? The consequences of an injury can be devastating. You may be wondering how to pay for your medical bills and whether your job will still be there when you can return to work. Fortunately, the law provides that employers must follow specific rule for workplace injuries. Know if your employer is taking advantage. It’s advised to contact an experienced Riverside workplace accident attorney to fight for the compensation that you deserve!
California Workers Compensation: A Primer
State law requires all employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance in case of a workplace injury. Here are a few things that you can do to help maximize your chances for a quick claims process:
#1. File a Prompt Accident Report
An accident report will be the basis of your workers’ comp claim decision. This can be problematic if you don’t know you’re injured right away. Sometimes, symptoms of an injury occur hours, even days, after an incident. Request to file a report, even if you don’t feel injured. Do it as soon as possible: You have a very short window for workers’ compensation claims, sometimes as few as 30 days.
#2. Weigh Your Options
Most states, including California, mandate employers get workers compensation insurance, and, in exchange, the law restricts the circumstances in which employees can sue their employers. Workers’ compensation doesn’t require an employee to prove an employer was negligent. In fact, they may be compensated for their own negligence. When you file a workers’ comp claim, know your chances of receiving an additional personal injury settlement are slim.
#3. Get Documentation
The first thing you should do after an accident is go visit a doctor. If your injuries are serious, head to an emergency room. If not, ask your employer if you need to see a company workers’ comp doctor. If your employer requests you see a certain doctor but you’re unhappy with the visit, get a second opinion. Insurance may not cover it, but paying for a second visit out-of-pocket may be worth it in the long run if you get more workers’ compensation benefits.
Note: Doctor’s visits are key. They will be the most important piece of evidence in your workers’ compensation claim. Insurance companies will use this information to accept or deny your benefits.
#4. Follow Up
It’s up to your employer to file a workers comp claim, but it’s your job to ensure they’ve filed a timely report. So do your part and be diligent about reminding them. By law, you’re entitled to a copy of your filed claim. So be sure to request this at the time of submission.
#5. Get Legal Representation
If you’re unhappy with your workers compensation claim result, speak to an experienced workers comp attorney. Your initial consultation is free, so it’s no risk to you.
Types of Workplace Injuries in Riverside
Are your wondering if your workplace injury makes you eligible for workers’ compensation? Even minor injuries may qualify you. Here are some of the most common types of workplace injuries:
- Slip and fall injuries. Hazardous workplace conditions can cause accidents, leading to bruising and even broken limbs.
- Overexertion from lifting/ergonomic injuries. Some jobs require constant lifting, which can lead to strained back muscles or herniated discs.
- Vehicle crashes. Work vehicle accidents are one of the most common types of workers compensation claims. Burns from airbags and whiplash are a couple of possible injuries.
- Repetitive motion injuries. These are also common. For example, typing can lead to carpal tunnel, a painful condition.
- Machine-related injuries. Heavy machinery can malfunction, leading to crush injuries or dismemberment.
Get a Competent Riverside Workplace Accident Lawyer in Your Corner
If a workplace accident injures you, you need a good workers comp attorney in Riverside to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Don’t let the insurance companies dish out a low-ball offer. Hire a lawyer who will fight for your rights.!
To discuss your options today, talk to one of the personal injury lawyers at Estey & Bomberger, LLP. Call us in Riverside today! 951-543-9020
