A work-related accident can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if you are unable to earn your living. If you’re an employee in California you may be entitled to workers compensation benefits. These can provide you with critical financial assistance and medical care while you recover. Gold Country Workers Comp is dedicated to helping injured employees navigate the complicated workers’ compensation system and receive the benefits they deserve. Have you been left Unable to Work due to Injury? If so, contact Gold Country Workers Comp for help getting compensation.
This blog will explore the information you need to be aware of if you are unable to return to work because of a work-related accident. We’ll also discuss your rights as an employee, the benefits you can receive, and how you can navigate the claim process with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
Your rights as a California injured worker
It’s important that you understand your rights under California’s worker’s compensation laws if you’re unable to go to work because of a work-related illness or injury. These rights include:
- Right to claim workers’ compensation benefits
- You have the right to medical treatment if you suffer an injury or illness at work
- You have the right to receive temporary disability benefits when you cannot work for more than 3 days.
- If your injury or illness causes a permanent impairment, you have the right to receive benefits for permanent disability.
- If your employer cannot offer you a modified or alternative job, then you have the right to additional benefits.
- Right to appeal the denial of a workers’ compensation claim
These rights are applicable regardless of fault, so long as the injury or illness occurred during your employment. It can be difficult to exercise these rights or secure the benefits that you deserve. This is why working with an experienced workers’ comp attorney is often necessary.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
You may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if you cannot work because of an injury or illness at work, depending on your condition. These benefits include:
- Medical Treatment Your workers’ compensation insurance should cover any reasonable and necessary medical care related to an injury or illness at work, including hospitalization, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Temporary Disablement Benefits: If your illness or injury prevents you from returning to work for more than 3 days, you could be entitled to temporary disability benefits. These typically amount to two-thirds of your average weekly wage (subject to minimum and maximum limits).
- Permanent Disablement Benefits: In the event that your work-related illness or injury results in a permanent impairment which affects your ability work, you could be entitled to benefits based on your disability and other factors.
- Additional Job Displacement Benefits If you are unable to find a job that is modified to accommodate your restrictions, your employer may be able to provide you with a voucher for additional job displacement to cover the cost of retraining and skill enhancement.
How to Navigate the Workers’ Compensation Claims Process
Reporting your injury or illness to your employer is the first step to receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Your employer will then provide the forms and information you need to make a claim for workers’ compensation.
The claims process is confusing and complex, and injured workers may find that their claim is denied or undervalued. Working with a workers’ compensation attorney who is experienced can make a huge difference.
Our attorneys at Gold Country Workers Comp have years of experience in fighting for injured workers’ rights throughout California. We can guide you through the entire claims process, including filing an initial claim, appealing a denial or negotiating a fair agreement.
Our team will do everything possible to help you recover from your injuries and to move on with your life. Free consultations are available, and we offer contingency representation. This means that you will not be charged attorney fees until your case is won.
Don’t face the Workers’ Compensation System alone
Do not try to navigate through the complicated workers’ compensation system by yourself if you’re unable to go to work because of an injury or illness at work. Gold Country Workers Comp’s experienced attorneys are here to assist you in understanding your rights, obtaining the benefits that you deserve, and protecting your future.
Call us to arrange a free consultation. We can tell you more about our services and how we can assist you after a workplace injury. Our knowledge, compassion and dedication will allow you to focus on recovering while we work for the compensation that you deserve. Have you been left Unable to Work due to Injury? If so, contact Gold Country Workers Comp for help getting compensation.
Unable to Work due to Injury?
Gold County Workers’ Compensation Center has worked for over 35 years to represent our clients and ensure they get fair compensation. Our caring team understands the stress that can accompany an injury at work. We are proud of the positive outcomes we have achieved for many people’s workers’ compensation claims. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary case consultation, or if there are any questions about your workers’ compensation claim.