Glendale Longshore Workers Compensation Attorney

California adopted the workers’ compensation program in the early part of the 20th century. Workers who are injured on the job have the right to access workers’ compensation benefits from their employer’s insurance policy. Navigating the workers compensation system can be difficult, and some workers’ compensation programs may even try to reject your claims. A Glendale longshore workers’ compensation attorney can help you protect your rights so you receive the benefits that you are owed.

Common Types of Workplace Injuries in Glendale

For a workers’ compensation claim in Glendale, California to be valid, the injury must have resulted from work-related activities. Someone who self-inflicts harm would not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Given the wide range of possible injuries that can occur in Glendale, it is important for all workers to know their rights and the common situations that can lead to a workers’ compensation claim.

• Physical injuries: A fall, bump, or unforeseen overhead object can lead to sprains, broken bones, cuts, and even head trauma. Whether the injury results from using heavy machinery or a random slip or fall, the injured worker has the right to seek compensation through the company’s workers’ compensation program.
• Repetitive motion injuries: Repetitive motions are common in most jobs. Whether those physical actions involve something as simple as typing or something as labor-intensive as lifting heavy objects, the resulting physical injuries can often be nerve damage-related. Common conditions and injuries that result from repetitive motion include carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and tendinitis.
• Illnesses: Work environments that place workers in close proximity to hazardous materials or toxic chemicals can lead to conditions and diseases like cancer, respiratory issues, and skin diseases.
• Stress-related injuries: Stress can lead to physical and mental health problems. Over time, stress at work can place pressure on the cardiovascular system, which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Mental health disorders can also result from stress at work. Examples of this include anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Occupational disease: Occupational diseases can be industry-specific, such as black lung disease in coal miners or asbestosis in workers exposed to asbestos. These conditions often take years to develop and may not be immediately identifiable as work-related.

It is important that anyone who experiences any of these symptoms or conditions report their work-related injury to their manager or employer as soon as possible. You can begin the process of filing for workers’ compensation benefits immediately. Having an attorney who represents you during that process can streamline the claim process and greatly improve the chances that your claim is accepted.

Certain workers, such as longshoremen, may qualify for benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). This federal law provides medical care and compensation for those injured on navigable U.S. waters or in adjacent areas like docks and shipyards.

Benefits of Hiring a Glendale Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Having a skilled attorney by your side can be invaluable as you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation. An attorney can take the burden off of you while you focus on recovery and your health. Workers who file compensation claims on their own may make filing errors that can delay their claim or lead to a preventable claim rejection.

Having legal representation can be crucial, especially if your employer or their insurance company denies your claim or if your benefits are reduced or terminated. An attorney can clarify your rights, ensure your claim is properly managed, and fight to secure the benefits you are entitled to receive.

FAQs

Q: How Much Can a Workers’ Comp Attorney Charge in California?

A: Workers’ compensation attorneys earn a percentage of the client’s settlement or award. This percentage is agreed upon early on in the claim process so the client has a full understanding of the attorney fee. One benefit of this system of contingency pay is that the workers are not on the hook for any legal fees. The attorney will not be paid until the client is.

Q: Can You Sue if You Accept Workers’ Compensation in California?

A: In California, if you accept workers’ compensation benefits, you generally cannot sue your employer for a work-related injury. Workers’ compensation does not require proving fault. A worker will be able to get workers’ compensation benefits but will not be able to sue the employer. There are a few exceptions where suing would be a possibility. One would be if the employer has no workers’ compensation insurance.

Q: Will My Workers’ Compensation Attorney Handle My Claim?

A: Yes. If you hire a workers’ compensation attorney, they will handle most, if not all, of the work involved in filing your claim. A workers’ compensation lawyer is a great resource. Beyond handling your claim, your workers’ compensation attorney can provide guidance and answers related to the claims process.

Q: Are All Workers’ Compensation Attorneys the Same?

A: Not all workers’ compensation attorneys are the same. Different lawyers bring different years of experience. Some personal injury attorneys focus on defective products, while others may represent clients in a wide range of personal injury cases. Check client reviews and look for an attorney who has a track record of successfully helping clients receive the benefits they need.

Q: What Happens if My Claim Is Rejected?

A: By working with a workers’ compensation attorney, you can greatly reduce the risk that your claim will be rejected. If your claim is rejected, it may be due to some error on the claim form. Your lawyer can review the form and resubmit it for you. Sometimes, the workers’ compensation plan wrongfully rejects a claim. Your attorney understands the state laws on workers’ compensation and can hold the insurance company accountable.

Schedule Your Workers’ Compensation Consultation Today

If you were injured on the job, having experienced legal counsel can greatly improve your chances of receiving full and prompt compensation. It is not uncommon for workers to meet resistance when filing claims. Having an attorney allows you to focus on recovering while your lawyer works on your behalf to help you receive compensation for your injuries.

Barry Law Group is here to assist you. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in California are dedicated to helping injured workers receive the benefits they deserve. Contact our law firm today for a consultation. We are proud to support our beloved Glendale community.