Glendale Workers’ Compensation Attorney
To ensure the well-being of its hard-working citizens, California has a comprehensive workers’ compensation program. This system provides a safety net for employees who are unfortunate enough to suffer an injury or illness due to their job duties. From paying for medical expenses to covering lost wages, California’s workers’ compensation program is designed to ensure that employees get the support they need. This allows them to get back on their feet and return to work as soon as possible. It benefits both employees and employers, as it helps the employee get back on their feet and ensures that the employer is protected from lawsuits. Therefore, whether you are a factory worker, a construction worker, or an office employee, know that your rights are protected. You will be taken care of if an unfortunate event occurs.
Barry Law Group: Your Glendale Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
At Barry Law Group, we understand the complexity of workers’ compensation laws in California. Our Glendale-based team of experienced workers’ compensation attorneys is committed to providing the highest quality legal representation. We specialize in helping injured or ill workers navigate the often difficult and confusing process of filing for workers’ compensation benefits.
Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling all types of workers’ compensation claims, from simple to complex. As a result, we can help you secure the maximum amount of compensation you are entitled to, as well as any other benefits related to your injury or illness. Connect with us today for a confidential consultation. Our dedicated legal team is here to provide the best advice, guidance, and representation in Glendale, CA.
What Workplace Scenarios Can Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
There are a variety of workplace scenarios that can qualify for California workers’ compensation benefits. Some examples include:
- Physical Injuries: These can range from cuts, bruises, broken bones, and sprains to more severe injuries like amputations, burns, and head trauma. These injuries can occur in various ways, such as through slips, trips, falls, or from operating heavy machinery.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries: These are injuries that occur due to repetitive motions such as typing, assembly line work, or heavy lifting. These injuries can include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and the trigger finger.
- Illnesses: Exposure to toxic chemicals or other hazardous materials on the job can cause a variety of diseases and conditions, such as respiratory issues, cancer, and skin diseases.
- Stress-Related Injuries: These can include injuries caused by mental or emotional stress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or a work-related anxiety disorder. This can happen to employees in high-stress jobs such as first responders and healthcare workers, or to employees who have been through a traumatic event at work.
- Occupational Diseases: These can include diseases specific to a certain industry, such as black lung disease in coal miners or asbestosis in workers exposed to asbestos. These diseases can take years to develop. They may not even be immediately recognizable as work-related.
- Heart Attacks or Strokes: In some cases, these conditions may be considered work-related if they are caused by stress or other factors specific to the worker’s job. This can happen to employees who work in high-stress jobs or have a sedentary lifestyle.
It is important to note that for a workers’ compensation claim to be valid, the injury or illness must have occurred due to the worker’s job and not due to their misconduct. The employer must also have workers’ compensation insurance coverage. With the wide range of injuries and illnesses that can qualify for workers’ compensation, it is essential for employees to be aware of their rights. They should report any work-related injuries or illnesses to their employer as soon as possible.
What Can Workers’ Compensation Benefits Specifically Cover?
Workers’ compensation benefits can cover various expenses related to a work-related injury or illness. Some examples include:
- Medical Expenses: This can include the cost of doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medication, physical therapy, and other medical treatments. This can also include the cost of prosthetics and other medical equipment necessary for the employee’s recovery.
- Temporary Disability Benefits: These benefits are provided to employees who cannot work due to an injury or illness and are intended to replace a portion of their lost wages. These benefits are usually calculated as a percentage of the employee’s average weekly wage. They are only provided for a specific period.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: These benefits are provided to employees who have a permanent impairment due to an injury or illness. They are intended to compensate them for the loss of their earning capacity. These benefits are usually calculated as a percentage of the employee’s average weekly wage. They can last for the rest of the employee’s life.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: This can include job training or retraining to help an employee return to work after an injury or illness. This can consist of education and training programs, job placement services, and other support services. These can help the employee acquire new skills and find suitable employment.
- Death Benefits: These benefits are provided to the survivors of an employee who has died due to a work-related injury or illness. These benefits can include a lump-sum payment and ongoing benefits for the employee’s dependents.
- Additional Benefits: Depending on the state and the specific case, additional benefits may be available, such as transportation costs, mileage reimbursement, and other miscellaneous expenses. These can include costs like parking, meals, lodging, and other expenses related to the employee’s recovery.
What Questions Should I Ask a Workers’ Compensation Attorney and Why?
When consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney, it is important to ask a series of questions to ensure that you understand your rights and the legal process. Some questions you may want to consider asking include:
- What is your experience handling workers’ compensation cases? It is important to work with an attorney with experience handling workers compensation cases. They will be familiar with the laws and regulations specific to your state and can provide you with the best advice.
- How will you handle my case? Understand the attorney’s approach to handling your case and what steps they will take to protect your rights.
- What are the chances of my case being successful? An attorney can estimate the chances of your case being successful based on the facts and the law.
- How long will the process take? An attorney can provide an estimate of how long the process will take and what steps will be involved.
- How will I be informed about the progress of my case? Communication is essential when working with an attorney to understand how and when you will be kept up to date on the status of your case.
- How will you keep me informed about my case? It is important to know how your attorney will keep you informed about your case, whether through phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings.
- What are the costs associated with my case? An attorney can provide you with an estimate of the costs related to your case, including legal fees, court costs, and other expenses.
FAQs About Glendale, CA Workers’ Compensation Law
When should I hire a workers’ comp lawyer?
A skilled attorney can be your greatest asset when navigating the complex world of workers’ compensation. You should consider hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer if you have been injured or become ill due to your job. They can be especially vital if your employer or their insurance company is denying your claim. They can also help if your benefits have been reduced or terminated. An attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that your claim is handled correctly. They can also ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.
What percentage does a workers’ compensation lawyer get in California?
In California, workers’ compensation attorneys typically charge a contingency fee, which means their fees are based on a percentage of the settlement or award. The percentage can vary, but it generally falls between 10 and 20%. This means they will only get paid if they can successfully settle or win your case.
What is the average workers’ comp settlement in California?
The amount of a workers’ compensation settlement in California can vary depending on the case’s specific circumstances, such as the nature and severity of the injury or illness and the employee’s earning capacity. On average, settlements can range from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars. However, it is important to note that every case is unique, and the settlement amount will depend on the facts and evidence of each case. It is also important to note that the settlement amount is not guaranteed. The attorney’s role is to negotiate the best possible outcome for the client.
What are some common mistakes employees make when filing for workers compensation?
Common mistakes that employees make when filing for workers’ compensation include the following:
- Not reporting the injury or illness right away
- Failing to follow up with medical care
- Not attending their doctor’s appointments
- Not taking the necessary steps to document the injury
Contact Barry Law Group Today
If you have been injured or become ill due to your job and are considering filing for workers’ compensation, Barry Law Group can help. We have experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in California committed to helping injured workers receive the benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a consultation. We are here to help our beloved Glendale community.
*Our firm does not handle claims with the federal government