How a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help You Get the Benefits You Deserve

After suffering a work injury, navigating the workers’ compensation insurance system can be complicated and time-consuming. Many times, insurance companies or employers will try to deny or minimize a workers’ compensation claim to avoid responsibility. If you’re faced with this hardship,  it is in your best interest to hire an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. 

An experienced workers’ compensation attorney helps injured workers who were denied their workers’ comp claims. In this blog, we’ll explore five reasons why you may need a workers’ compensation attorney. 

1. You Suffered a Serious Injury on the Job

Workplace injuries result from any normal activity or duty on the job. An employee may slip and fall, resulting in a broken bone, or lift heavy objects, causing a repetitive stress injury. When it comes to minor injuries, you may be able to file a claim on your own. Still, when it comes to serious injuries, having legal representation can greatly affect your settlement. 

Some of the most common work-related injuries include: 

• Broken bones
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Muscular injuries
• Back injuries, including herniated disks
• Exposure to toxic chemicals
• Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries 
• Hearing loss or damage
• Tendonitis
• Burn or heat stress-related injuries

Anyone can suffer a workplace injury, but some jobs are more inherently riskier than others. Construction workers, logging workers, and roofers are some of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

2. You Need Help Understanding Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

In California, the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) oversees all workers’ compensation claims and disputes that may arise. However, it isn’t as easy as logging into the site and filing a claim. Workers’ compensation is complex, with various rules, regulations, and legal procedures that must be followed. A workers’ compensation attorney can help injured employees navigate the complex legal system and communicate with you every step of the way. 

Injured workers have one year after the date of injury or illness to report and file a workers’ comp claim. A workers’ comp lawyer will ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements and deadlines in the claims process. 

3. Your Employer Denied Your Workers Comp Claim 

If you are injured at work, you are legally entitled to compensation for medical treatment, temporary disability wages, and more. Unfortunately, employers and insurance companies frequently deny valid workers’ compensation claims for various reasons. They may try to say your injury was not work-related or you filed too late. If this happens to you, you need to hire a knowledgeable attorney to file an appeal. He or she will help you with all of the paperwork, gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.

4. Your Employer Won’t Report Your Injury

Under California’s workers’ compensation law, employers are required to report the injury to the insurance company within 30 days and give you a workers’ compensation claim form to fill out. If your employer refuses to report your injury, it is a sign to hire a workers’ comp attorney. 

Additionally, if you are fired, demoted, or your pay or hours are reduced because you filed a workers’ comp claim, contact an attorney to protect your legal rights. 

5. You Want to Maximize Your Benefits

In many cases, workers’ compensation benefits may not be enough to fully cover your expenses or compensate you for your injuries. While your employer may offer to cover your medical bills, they may refuse to pay disability benefits. They may also try to dispute your disability rating. This rating is assigned by a doctor and determines how much benefits you will receive. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you maximize your benefits by ensuring that you receive the appropriate level of compensation for your injuries and lost wages. 

6. You Want Peace of Mind

Injuries that occur on the job can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when you are trying to navigate the workers’ compensation system on your own. Hiring a workers’ comp attorney can provide you with peace of mind. Knowing that you have an experienced professional fighting for your rights and interests will reduce your stress and allow you to focus on your recovery. 

We Are California Workers’ Comp Attorneys

Whether you need help navigating your workers’ comp claim, recovering workers’ compensation benefits such as medical bills and lost wages, or simply want peace of mind, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can provide the expertise and guidance you need to obtain the financial compensation you deserve.

If you are an injured worker, consider hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer in Rancho Cucamonga. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which you pay nothing until we win. Our personal injury law firm offers a free consultation to get started. Call us at (909) 942-7632 or fill out a free case evaluation form.