Palmdale Workers Compensation Lawyers FAQs
Q. I was injured in an accident at work. Can I file a claim to collect workers’ compensation benefits?
A. Palmdale Workers Compensation Lawyers FAQs- Most full and part time employees employed in the state of California are eligible to receive benefits through the work comp system. In cases where a death occurred as a result of a workplace accident, the dependents of the deceased may file a claim to collect work comp dependency benefits.
Q. What types of benefits can I obtain if my claim is approved?
A. In California, injured workers may be able to obtain benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, and job rehabilitation. Medical expenses like surgery, doctor visits, physical therapy, prescription medication, and medical devices are covered by the work comp system. Benefits for lost wages are categorized as temporary disability benefits, permanent partial disability benefits and permanent total disability benefits.
A skilled work injury lawyer at the California Workers Compensation Lawyers can tell you what types of benefits you may be able to collect and how much compensation you can expect to receive. Don’t hesitate to call them now at 213.640.3036.
Q. I’ve heard I have up to two years to file a claim. Is that true?
A. Yes. Per law, injured employees have two years from the date the injury occurred or the last payment of compensation to file a workers’ compensation claim. If an individual is suffering from an occupational illness or disease, such as mesothelioma or lead poisoning, the individual has two years from the date he or she became aware the illness was work related. Missing a filing deadline could jeopardize an injured worker’s ability to obtain benefits, so it’s best not to wait to take action. Although two years may seem like a lot of time to file a claim, the time can pass very quickly when dealing with legal matters.
Q. I’m afraid my employer will fire me while I’m taking time off to recover. Should I be concerned about my job?
A. No. It is against the law for an employer to fire an employee for filing a work comp claim, collecting benefits or taking approved time off. Any acts of retaliation by an employer are not legal and employees who have been retaliated against have legal rights protecting them.
If you believe your termination was related to filing a work comp claim, it is highly recommended you speak to a dedicated work injury attorney at the California Workers Compensation Lawyers. They can quickly determine if your employer has acted negligently and tell you what steps you can take to protect your legal rights.
Q. Can I choose the doctor I see?
A. Under California law, your employer and their insurance carrier can select the doctor who treats you. However, you may still see your family doctor (at your cost) if you want to get a second opinion or if you are unsure of the level of care you are receiving from the doctor chosen by your employer. In some cases, an employer’s insurance carrier may permit a worker to see a doctor of his or her choosing.
Q. When is it best to contact a work comp lawyer?
A. It’s best to contact an experienced work comp attorney at the California Workers Compensation Lawyers as soon as possible after sustaining a work-related injury. We can make sure your claim progresses smoothly and prevent any delays in the process. Our aggressive work injury lawyers always offer free case reviews and won’t charge you any legal fess until you get benefits. Reach us today by calling 213.640.3036. You can also reach us anytime of the day or night by submitting a case contact form.